Disney Tips Your Guide To A Great Disney Vacation
Planning a magical Disney Parks vacation starts with selecting the right Disney Resort hotel. But with dozens of Walt Disney World resorts to choose from, how do you pick where to stay?
With over 25 unique Disney Resort hotels offering different themes, amenities, and price points, finding the best fit for your family can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re looking for luxury accommodations, convenient park access, or a budget-friendly stay, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
Understanding Disney Resort Categories
Disney Resort hotels are divided into three main categories, each catering to different budgets and vacation styles.
Value Resorts
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Value Resort hotels are perfect for families looking to maximize fun while keeping costs low. They offer vibrant themes, large pools, and food courts.
- Budget-friendly accommodations with Disney magic
- Larger-than-life character decor and fun themes
- Basic amenities with quick-service dining options
- Some Value Resort hotels offer suites for larger families.
- Examples: Disney’s Pop Century Resort, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Moderate Resorts
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Moderate Resort hotels strike a balance between affordability and comfort, offering immersive themes and expanded amenities.
- Themed pools with slides and hot tubs
- A mix of quick-service and sit-down dining options
- More spacious rooms compared to Value Resorts
- Examples: Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort
Deluxe Resorts and Villas
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Deluxe Resorts provides high-end accommodations, prime locations, and top-tier services for those seeking the ultimate Walt Disney World experience.
- Luxurious rooms, fine dining, and concierge services
- Convenient locations near parks, often within walking distance
- Additional amenities like spas, character dining, and club-level lounges
- Examples: Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Choosing a Resort Based on Location
Proximity to the parks can significantly impact your vacation experience. Here’s how different Disney Resort locations align with park access.
Magic Kingdom Resort Area
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Staying near Magic Kingdom Park means quick access to the park via monorail, boat, or walking paths.
- Best for families with young children who want to visit the Magic Kingdom frequently and return to their Disney Resort often
- Resorts: Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios Resort Area
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These resorts offer easy access to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios by walking, boat, or the Disney Skyliner.
- Best for adults and park hoppers who enjoy EPCOT’s dining and festivals
- Resorts: Disney’s BoardWalk Inn, Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort (Skyliner access)
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park Resort Area
Credit: Brittany DiCologero, Inside the Magic
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is the standout resort in this area, offering savanna views and African-inspired dining. Disney’s All-Star Resorts, just a short bus ride away, provide a budget-friendly alternative.
- Best for animal lovers and adventure seekers
- Resorts: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, Disney’s All-Star Resorts
Disney Springs Resort Area
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These resorts provide convenient access to Disney Springs, known for its shopping, dining, and entertainment.
- Best for nightlife and dining enthusiasts
- Resorts: Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort, non-Disney Good Neighbor hotels
Transportation Options at Walt Disney World Resorts
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Each Disney Resort hotel offers complimentary transportation to the theme parks and Disney Springs. Consider which option best suits your needs:
- Monorail: Serves Magic Kingdom and EPCOT area resorts for a quick and scenic ride
- Disney Skyliner: Connects EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios with select resorts
- Buses: Available at all resorts, offering direct routes to parks and Disney Springs
- Boats: A leisurely option available at select resorts near Magic Kingdom and EPCOT
Disney Resort Size and Layout Considerations
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Larger resorts may require more walking to reach amenities or transportation, while smaller resorts provide easier access to dining and pools. Some expansive Walt Disney World Resort hotels offer complimentary shuttles to easily access different areas, while more compact Disney Resorts are walkable.
- Large Resorts: Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
- Compact Resorts: Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, Disney’s Pop Century Resort
Must-Know Resort Amenities and Perks
Beyond the basics like Early Theme Park Entry and complimentary transportation, each Disney Resort hotel offers unique perks and experiences:
Pools and Recreation
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- Themed pools with waterslides at Moderate and Deluxe Resorts
- Poolside activities, including games and movie nights, are available at most Disney Resort hotels
- Specialty pools like Stormalong Bay at Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts
Dining Options
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- Quick-Service Dining: Food courts and grab-and-go meals available at all resorts
- Table-Service Restaurants: Found at Moderate and Deluxe Resorts, featuring themed and fine dining
- Character Dining: Enjoy meals with Disney characters at select Deluxe Resorts, like Wish Makers Enchanted Dining at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Other Perks
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- Early theme park entry for all Disney resort guests
- Extended evening hours at select Deluxe Resort hotels
- Complimentary MagicBand+ pairing and early Lightning Lane booking access
Budgeting for Your Disney Resort Stay
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Your resort choice should align with your vacation budget. Consider these price ranges:
- Value Resorts: $120–$250 per night
- Moderate Resorts: $250–$400 per night
- Deluxe Resorts: $450+ per night
Special Considerations When Booking
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If you’re celebrating a special occasion or have specific needs, consider the following:
- Celebrations: In-room celebrations, cake delivery, and other special requests available
- Mobility Needs: Accessible rooms and transportation services provided
- Allergy-Friendly Dining: Many Disney restaurants accommodate dietary restrictions
Which Disney Resort Will You Choose?
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Choosing the right Walt Disney World Resort hotel enhances your entire vacation experience. Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly fun, a balance of comfort and cost, or a luxury getaway, there’s a Disney Resort perfect for your needs. Consider location, amenities, and budget to find the best fit for your dream Disney vacation!
Which Walt Disney World Resorts are your favorite? Let Disney Tips know in the comments!
