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Alternative Accommodations at Walt Disney World Resort

A wooden cabin sits elevated among tall trees in a sunlit forest. A cartoon explorer with a hat and monocle stands in the foreground, gazing upward, as if discovering the magic of a Disney Resort nestled in nature's embrace.
Credit: Disney Tips

The magic of Walt Disney World Resort extends beyond its attractions and entertainment—it also lives in its immersive resort experiences. With countless options, no two Disney vacations are ever the same. Whether you’re a returning Guest or planning your first visit, staying at a unique resort can make your trip even more magical.

One way to enhance your Disney adventure is to choose accommodations beyond a standard hotel room. From treehouses and bungalows to cabins and themed suites, Disney offers a variety of one-of-a-kind lodging options that transport you to different worlds while keeping you close to the action.

Here’s a guide to some of the most enchanting and alternative stays available at Walt Disney World Resort.

The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort

Located in the Magic Kingdom area, Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground offers two distinct accommodations: campsites for those who love traditional camping and cabins for those who prefer modern comforts with a rustic touch.

The cabins are perfect for up to six Guests, featuring:

  • A private living room with cozy furnishings
  • A full kitchen, fully equipped for preparing meals
  • A bedroom and full bathroom for added comfort
  • A private patio and charcoal grill for outdoor dining
  • Housekeeping service, including dishwashing

Fort Wilderness Cabins provide the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation if you love nature but still want a comfortable retreat.

A serene campsite at dusk features a lit tent near a calm river with trees in the background. A heron stands on the riverbank, and the water reflects the tent and surrounding nature, creating a peaceful scene reminiscent of discovering unknown to-dos at Disney World.

Credit: Disney

Treehouse Villas at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa

For a secluded retreat among the trees, the Treehouse Villas at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa offers a stunning escape just minutes from Disney Springs. Accessible via the Sassagoula River, these villas provide an immersive natural setting with modern Disney magic.

Each Treehouse Villa sleeps up to nine Guests and includes:

  • Three bedrooms and two bathrooms
  • A fully equipped kitchen and spacious living area
  • An elevated deck for breathtaking nature views
  • Exclusive access to a pool and hot tub

These villas are perfect for larger families or groups looking for a tranquil getaway while still being near the heart of Disney’s entertainment.

Copper Creek Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

Nestled along Bay Lake, the Copper Creek Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge bring the feel of a cozy mountain retreat to Florida. With a design inspired by the great outdoors, these cabins blend luxury and wilderness charm.

Each cabin accommodates up to eight guests and includes:

  • Two bedrooms and two bathrooms
  • A full kitchen and spacious living area
  • A washer and dryer for added convenience
  • A double-sided stone hearth fireplace
  • A wrap-around porch with a built-in hot tub

With easy boat access to Magic Kingdom, these cabins offer a relaxing yet convenient Disney experience.

Polynesian Bungalows at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

If you’ve ever dreamed of staying in an over-the-water bungalow, the Polynesian Bungalows at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort deliver a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Located on Seven Seas Lagoon, these stunning bungalows provide the ultimate tropical retreat.

Each bungalow accommodates up to eight guests and features:

  • Two bedrooms and two bathrooms
  • A full kitchen, dining area, and living space
  • A private deck and plunge pool overlooking Cinderella Castle
  • Speakers that sync with Happily Ever After fireworks music

This is the perfect spot for watching the fireworks from your private plunge pool while enjoying the beauty of the Polynesian atmosphere.

Family Suites at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

For families looking for an immersive stay at an affordable price, the Family Suites at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort offer a fun and budget-friendly option. Each suite is themed after classic Disney and Pixar films, including:

  • Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond! (2003)
  • Cars (2006)
  • The Lion King (1994)

Each suite sleeps up to six Guests and includes:

  • One queen bed, one double-size table sleeper, and one double-size sofa bed
  • A living room and kitchenette
  • Two bathrooms

These suites are perfect for families who want a vibrant, movie-inspired stay with access to Disney Skyliner transportation.

Upgraded Resort Rooms with Themed Touches

If you want a Disney-themed experience but prefer a traditional hotel stay, consider upgraded rooms at select Disney resorts:

  • Royal Guest Rooms at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside: Hosted by Princess Tiana, these elegant rooms feature:
    • A fireworks-lit headboard
    • Genie lamp faucets
    • A magic carpet design
  • Pirate Rooms at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort: Though currently being rethemed, these rooms previously featured:
    • Pirate ship-inspired beds
    • Swashbuckling decor perfect for young adventurers

If you’re celebrating a special occasion or want a touch of Disney storytelling in your room, these options are great for an extra magical stay.

Disney Port Orleans Riverside

Credit: Disney

Why Choose an Alternative Disney Resort Stay?

A Walt Disney World vacation is about more than just the parks—it’s about creating unforgettable moments. Staying in a unique Disney accommodation can elevate your trip, whether you choose a rustic cabin, an enchanting treehouse, a tropical bungalow, or a royal guest room.

Why consider an alternative stay?

  • More space: Many of these options accommodate larger groups comfortably.
  • Immersive theming: Each stay offers a story that extends the Disney magic beyond the parks.
  • Exclusive amenities: From private plunge pools to nature trails, these accommodations provide experiences you won’t find in standard hotel rooms.

Make Your Next Disney Stay Extra Magical

If you’re looking for a way to enhance your Disney trip, choosing an alternative resort accommodation is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the magic even after you leave the parks. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, planning a special family getaway, or just want to try something new, these unique lodging options will make your Disney vacation truly unforgettable.

About Victoria Mills

Victoria is a Disney-loving, tea-drinking, Math teacher from Liverpool, England. Her motto is 'work hard, Disney harder'! Having taken part in the Disney College Program back in 2010, Victoria's love and appreciation for Walt Disney World only grew, and it's the place where she feels most herself - it's home!

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