Disney Hotels: Your Guide to Magical Stays

Planning a trip to Disney World or Disneyland? Choosing the right hotel is a crucial part of the experience. Disney hotels offer a unique blend of immersive theming, convenient amenities, and that special Disney magic that can elevate your vacation from memorable to truly unforgettable. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the various Disney hotel options, offering insights, reviews, and tips to help you select the perfect home base for your magical adventure. We’ll cover everything from budget-friendly value resorts to luxurious deluxe accommodations, ensuring you find a hotel that fits your needs and your budget.

Understanding the Disney Hotel System

Disney categorizes its hotels into distinct tiers: Value, Moderate, Deluxe, and Deluxe Villa Resorts. Each tier offers a different level of theming, amenities, and price point. Understanding these categories is the first step in finding the perfect hotel for your vacation.

Value Resorts: Budget-Friendly Magic

Value Resorts are the most affordable option for staying on Disney property. While they might lack some of the bells and whistles of the more expensive resorts, they still offer clean, comfortable accommodations and the convenience of Disney transportation. They are a great choice for families on a budget who prioritize spending their time in the parks.

Popular Value Resorts include:

• All-Star Movies Resort: Celebrating classic Disney films, this resort features larger-than-life icons from movies like “Toy Story,” “101 Dalmatians,” and “The Mighty Ducks.”
• All-Star Music Resort: This resort pays tribute to various genres of music, with themed sections dedicated to Broadway, Calypso, Country, Jazz, and Rock ‘n’ Roll.
• All-Star Sports Resort: Perfect for sports enthusiasts, this resort showcases the excitement of baseball, basketball, football, tennis, and surfing.
• Art of Animation Resort: This resort is a favorite among families, with incredibly detailed theming based on popular animated films like “Finding Nemo,” “Cars,” “The Lion King,” and “The Little Mermaid.” It also offers family suites, which are larger rooms with separate sleeping areas.
• Pop Century Resort: A nostalgic trip through the decades, Pop Century celebrates the fads and trends of the 20th century, from the 1950s to the 1990s.

Pros of Value Resorts:

• Most affordable Disney hotel option.
• Themed swimming pools.
• Food courts with a variety of dining options.
• Complimentary Disney transportation to parks and Disney Springs.

Cons of Value Resorts:

• Smaller rooms compared to Moderate and Deluxe Resorts.
• Food courts can be crowded during peak hours.
• Bus transportation is the primary mode of transportation (no monorail or boat access).
• Fewer amenities than higher-tier resorts.

Moderate Resorts: A Step Up in Comfort and Amenities

Moderate Resorts offer a balance between affordability and enhanced amenities. These resorts typically feature larger rooms, themed pools with slides, and more diverse dining options than Value Resorts. They are a good choice for families who want a more comfortable experience without breaking the bank.

Popular Moderate Resorts include:

• Caribbean Beach Resort: This resort transports guests to a tropical paradise with colorful buildings, white-sand beaches, and themed pools. The resort features the Disney Skyliner, providing convenient access to Epcot and Hollywood Studios.
• Coronado Springs Resort: Inspired by Spanish Colonial Mexico and the American Southwest, Coronado Springs offers a sophisticated atmosphere with beautiful landscaping and a large convention center. It’s a popular choice for both leisure and business travelers.
• Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter: This charming resort captures the spirit of New Orleans’ French Quarter, with wrought-iron balconies, cobblestone streets, and jazz music.
• Port Orleans Resort – Riverside: Divided into two distinct sections, Alligator Bayou and Magnolia Bend, Riverside offers a blend of rustic charm and Southern elegance. It features the iconic Yehaa Bob Jackson, a talented piano player and entertainer.

Pros of Moderate Resorts:

• Larger rooms than Value Resorts.
• Themed pools with water slides.
• Table-service dining options in addition to food courts.
• More elaborate theming than Value Resorts.
• Some Moderate Resorts offer Disney Skyliner access.

Cons of Moderate Resorts:

• Can be more spread out than Value Resorts, requiring longer walks.
• Transportation options may be limited to buses at some resorts.
• More expensive than Value Resorts.

Deluxe Resorts: Luxury and Immersive Experiences

Deluxe Resorts are the most luxurious option for staying on Disney property. These resorts offer spacious accommodations, exceptional dining experiences, elaborate theming, and a wide range of amenities. They are a great choice for guests who want to indulge in the ultimate Disney vacation.

Popular Deluxe Resorts include:

• Animal Kingdom Lodge: Immerse yourself in the beauty of Africa at this unique resort, which overlooks a savanna where you can see giraffes, zebras, and other animals roaming freely.
• Beach Club Resort: This elegant resort offers a New England beachside theme and features Stormalong Bay, a sprawling water complex with a sand-bottom pool, lazy river, and waterslide.
• BoardWalk Inn: Step back in time to the early 20th century at this charming resort, which is inspired by the boardwalks of Coney Island and Atlantic City.
• Contemporary Resort: A modern marvel, the Contemporary Resort is famous for the monorail that runs directly through its lobby. It offers stunning views of the Magic Kingdom and is within walking distance of the park.
• Grand Floridian Resort & Spa: The flagship resort of Walt Disney World, the Grand Floridian exudes Victorian elegance and offers unparalleled luxury and service.
• Polynesian Village Resort: Escape to the South Pacific at this tropical paradise, which features lush landscaping, overwater bungalows, and a relaxing atmosphere.
• Wilderness Lodge: Inspired by the national parks of the American Northwest, Wilderness Lodge offers a rustic and tranquil escape with stunning views of Bay Lake.
• Yacht Club Resort: This nautical-themed resort evokes the charm of a New England yacht club, with elegant decor and a relaxed atmosphere.

Pros of Deluxe Resorts:

• Spacious rooms and luxurious amenities.
• Exceptional dining experiences, including character dining.
• Elaborate theming and immersive experiences.
• Multiple transportation options, including monorail, boat, and bus.
• Convenient location near the parks.
• Concierge services and enhanced guest services.

Cons of Deluxe Resorts:

• Most expensive Disney hotel option.
• Can be overwhelming due to their size and number of amenities.

Deluxe Villa Resorts: Home Away From Home

Deluxe Villa Resorts offer the comforts of home with the amenities of a Deluxe Resort. These resorts feature spacious villas with kitchens, living areas, and separate bedrooms, making them ideal for families or groups who want more space and flexibility. They are part of the Disney Vacation Club (DVC) but are also available to book by non-members.

Popular Deluxe Villa Resorts include:

• Bay Lake Tower at Contemporary Resort: Located next to the Contemporary Resort, Bay Lake Tower offers modern villas with stunning views of the Magic Kingdom and Bay Lake.
• Beach Club Villas: Adjacent to the Beach Club Resort, Beach Club Villas offers spacious villas with a New England beachside theme and access to Stormalong Bay.
• BoardWalk Villas: Located next to the BoardWalk Inn, BoardWalk Villas offers charming villas with a turn-of-the-century boardwalk theme.
• Boulder Ridge Villas at Wilderness Lodge: Part of the Wilderness Lodge, Boulder Ridge Villas offers rustic villas inspired by the American Northwest.
• Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Wilderness Lodge: Also part of the Wilderness Lodge, Copper Creek offers modern villas and waterfront cabins with stunning views of Bay Lake.
• Grand Floridian Villas: Located at the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Grand Floridian Villas offers luxurious villas with Victorian elegance.
• Old Key West Resort: The original Disney Vacation Club resort, Old Key West offers spacious villas with a relaxed Key West theme.
• Polynesian Villas & Bungalows: Located at the Polynesian Village Resort, Polynesian Villas & Bungalows offers luxurious villas and overwater bungalows with a South Pacific theme.
• Riviera Resort: Inspired by the French and Italian Riviera, Riviera Resort offers elegant villas with stunning views and access to the Disney Skyliner.
• Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa: Inspired by Saratoga Springs, New York, this resort offers spacious villas with a relaxing atmosphere and a variety of recreational activities.
• Villas at Animal Kingdom Lodge – Jambo House: Located at Animal Kingdom Lodge, Jambo House offers spacious villas with stunning views of the savanna.
• Villas at Animal Kingdom Lodge – Kidani Village: Also located at Animal Kingdom Lodge, Kidani Village offers unique villas with immersive theming and close proximity to the animals.

Pros of Deluxe Villa Resorts:

• Spacious villas with kitchens, living areas, and separate bedrooms.
• Home-like amenities, such as washers and dryers.
• Access to all the amenities of the Deluxe Resorts.
• Ideal for families or groups who want more space and flexibility.

Cons of Deluxe Villa Resorts:

• Expensive compared to other Disney hotel options.
• May require a longer stay to make the most of the amenities.

Choosing the Right Disney Hotel for You

With so many options to choose from, selecting the perfect Disney hotel can feel overwhelming. Here are some factors to consider when making your decision:

Budget

Your budget is the most important factor to consider. Value Resorts are the most affordable option, while Deluxe and Deluxe Villa Resorts are the most expensive. Moderate Resorts offer a good balance between affordability and amenities. Consider how much you are willing to spend on your accommodations and choose a resort that fits your budget.

Group Size

The size of your group will also influence your choice. Value and Moderate Resorts typically have smaller rooms that are best suited for families of four or less. Deluxe and Deluxe Villa Resorts offer larger rooms and suites that can accommodate larger groups. Deluxe Villa Resorts with multiple bedrooms and living areas are ideal for families or groups who want more space and privacy.

Theme Preference

Disney hotels are known for their immersive theming. Consider which theme appeals to you and your family. Do you want to stay in a tropical paradise, a rustic lodge, or a Victorian mansion? Choose a resort that reflects your personal style and interests.

Park Priorities

If you plan to spend most of your time at a particular park, consider staying at a resort that is conveniently located to that park. For example, the Contemporary Resort, Polynesian Village Resort, and Grand Floridian Resort & Spa are all located on the monorail line, providing easy access to the Magic Kingdom and Epcot (via a monorail transfer). The Yacht Club, Beach Club, and BoardWalk Inn are within walking distance of Epcot and Hollywood Studios. Caribbean Beach Resort and Riviera Resort offer Disney Skyliner access to Epcot and Hollywood Studios.

Transportation Needs

Consider your transportation needs when choosing a resort. All Disney hotels offer complimentary transportation to the parks and Disney Springs, but the type of transportation varies. Some resorts offer monorail, boat, and bus service, while others are limited to bus service only. If you want convenient access to the monorail or boat, choose a Deluxe Resort located on those transportation lines. If you are comfortable relying on buses, any Disney hotel will work.

Amenities and Activities

Think about which amenities and activities are important to you. Do you want a resort with a sprawling water complex, a lazy river, or a kids’ club? Do you want to be able to see animals from your hotel room? Choose a resort that offers the amenities and activities that you and your family will enjoy.

Disney Hotel Perks

Staying at a Disney hotel comes with a number of perks, including:

Early Theme Park Entry

Guests staying at Disney Resort hotels and select other hotels can enjoy 30-minute early entry to ANY theme park EVERY day. This gives you a head start on the crowds and allows you to experience some of the most popular attractions with shorter wait times.

Complimentary Transportation

Disney provides complimentary transportation between the airport and your hotel via the Magical Express (though this service is ending in 2022, so look for alternative transportation options), as well as transportation to all the parks and Disney Springs. This makes it easy to get around without having to worry about driving or parking.

Package Delivery

If you purchase merchandise in the parks, you can have it delivered directly to your hotel room, saving you the hassle of carrying it around all day. This is a convenient perk that allows you to shop without being weighed down.

Charging Privileges

You can charge purchases made throughout Walt Disney World to your MagicBand or hotel room key, making it easy to pay for meals, merchandise, and other expenses. This eliminates the need to carry cash or credit cards.

MagicBands

While no longer complimentary, MagicBands can be purchased and used to unlock your hotel room door, enter the parks, charge purchases, and link PhotoPass photos. They are a convenient and customizable accessory that enhances your Disney experience.

Disney Value Resort Hotel Reviews

All-Star Movies Resort

All-Star Movies Resort is a fantastic option for families on a budget. The large-scale movie icons are a visual treat for children, and the food court offers a variety of options. The rooms are basic but clean and comfortable. The bus transportation is reliable, although it can sometimes be crowded during peak hours. Overall, All-Star Movies is a great value for the price.

All-Star Music Resort

All-Star Music Resort is another excellent value option. The music-themed sections are fun and engaging, and the resort has a lively atmosphere. The rooms are similar to those at All-Star Movies, and the food court offers similar options. The bus transportation is also reliable.

All-Star Sports Resort

All-Star Sports Resort is perfect for sports enthusiasts. The themed sections are well-done, and the resort has a competitive spirit. The rooms are basic but functional, and the food court offers a decent selection of food. As with the other All-Star resorts, bus transportation is the primary mode of transportation.

Art of Animation Resort

Art of Animation Resort is a step above the other Value Resorts in terms of theming and amenities. The “Finding Nemo,” “Cars,” “The Lion King,” and “The Little Mermaid” sections are incredibly detailed and immersive. The family suites are a great option for larger families who want more space. The resort also features the Disney Skyliner, providing convenient access to Epcot and Hollywood Studios. This resort is a popular choice and often books up quickly.

Pop Century Resort

Pop Century Resort is a nostalgic trip through the decades. The resort is well-maintained and has a fun and energetic atmosphere. The rooms are slightly larger than those at the All-Star Resorts, and the food court offers a good variety of options. Pop Century also features the Disney Skyliner, providing convenient access to Epcot and Hollywood Studios.

Disney Moderate Resort Hotel Reviews

Caribbean Beach Resort

Caribbean Beach Resort is a tropical paradise with colorful buildings, white-sand beaches, and themed pools. The resort is large and spread out, but the internal bus transportation is efficient. The rooms are well-appointed and have a Caribbean theme. The resort also features the Disney Skyliner, providing convenient access to Epcot and Hollywood Studios.

Coronado Springs Resort

Coronado Springs Resort offers a sophisticated atmosphere with beautiful landscaping and a large convention center. The resort is popular with both leisure and business travelers. The rooms are comfortable and well-equipped, and the resort has a variety of dining options. The bus transportation is reliable, but the resort is large and can require long walks.

Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter

Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter is a charming resort that captures the spirit of New Orleans’ French Quarter. The resort is smaller and more intimate than the other Moderate Resorts, making it a good choice for those who prefer a quieter atmosphere. The rooms are well-themed, and the resort has a delicious beignet shop.

Port Orleans Resort – Riverside

Port Orleans Resort – Riverside is divided into two distinct sections, Alligator Bayou and Magnolia Bend. Alligator Bayou offers a rustic charm, while Magnolia Bend exudes Southern elegance. The resort is large and offers a variety of activities, including horse-drawn carriage rides and fishing. Yehaa Bob Jackson performs regularly at the River Roost Lounge, providing lively entertainment.

Disney Deluxe Resort Hotel Reviews

Animal Kingdom Lodge

Animal Kingdom Lodge is a truly unique resort that offers stunning views of a savanna where you can see giraffes, zebras, and other animals roaming freely. The resort is beautifully themed and offers a variety of cultural experiences. The rooms are spacious and well-appointed, and the resort has excellent dining options, including Jiko – The Cooking Place. Kidani Village offers villas with even closer views of the animals.

Beach Club Resort

Beach Club Resort offers a New England beachside theme and features Stormalong Bay, a sprawling water complex with a sand-bottom pool, lazy river, and waterslide. The resort is within walking distance of Epcot and Hollywood Studios. The rooms are elegant and comfortable, and the resort has excellent dining options, including Beaches & Cream Soda Shop.

BoardWalk Inn

BoardWalk Inn is a charming resort that is inspired by the boardwalks of Coney Island and Atlantic City. The resort is within walking distance of Epcot and Hollywood Studios. The rooms are well-themed, and the resort has a lively atmosphere with street performers and carnival games. Dining options include Flying Fish and Trattoria al Forno.

Contemporary Resort

Contemporary Resort is a modern marvel that is famous for the monorail that runs directly through its lobby. The resort offers stunning views of the Magic Kingdom and is within walking distance of the park. The rooms are spacious and well-appointed, and the resort has excellent dining options, including Chef Mickey’s and Steakhouse 71.

Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is the flagship resort of Walt Disney World and exudes Victorian elegance. The resort offers unparalleled luxury and service. The rooms are spacious and beautifully decorated, and the resort has world-class dining options, including Citricos and Narcoossee’s.

Polynesian Village Resort

Polynesian Village Resort is a tropical paradise that offers lush landscaping, overwater bungalows, and a relaxing atmosphere. The resort is located on the monorail line, providing easy access to the Magic Kingdom and Epcot. The rooms are well-themed and spacious, and the resort has excellent dining options, including ‘Ohana and Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto.

Wilderness Lodge

Wilderness Lodge is inspired by the national parks of the American Northwest and offers a rustic and tranquil escape with stunning views of Bay Lake. The resort is beautifully themed and offers a variety of recreational activities. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, and the resort has excellent dining options, including Whispering Canyon Cafe and Geyser Point Bar & Grill.

Yacht Club Resort

Yacht Club Resort is a nautical-themed resort that evokes the charm of a New England yacht club. The resort is within walking distance of Epcot and Hollywood Studios. The rooms are elegant and comfortable, and the resort has excellent dining options, including Yachtsman Steakhouse and Ale & Compass Restaurant.

Tips for Booking Your Disney Hotel

Booking your Disney hotel in advance is essential, especially if you are traveling during peak season. Here are some tips to help you secure the best possible rate:

• Book early: The earlier you book, the better chance you have of getting your preferred hotel and room type.
• Consider travel dates: Prices vary depending on the time of year. Traveling during the off-season (e.g., January, September) can save you money.
• Look for discounts: Disney often offers discounts on hotel rooms, especially for Florida residents, military personnel, and Disney Vacation Club members.
• Use a travel agent: A Disney travel agent can help you find the best deals and plan your entire vacation.
• Consider a package: Bundling your hotel and park tickets can sometimes save you money.

Conclusion

Choosing the right Disney hotel is a key ingredient for a magical vacation. Whether you prioritize budget, theming, amenities, or location, there is a Disney hotel that is perfect for you. By considering the factors outlined in this guide, you can find the perfect home base for your unforgettable Disney adventure. Remember to book early, look for discounts, and consider your priorities when making your decision. With a little planning, you can create a Disney vacation that you and your family will cherish for years to come.