Looking for a comparison of all of the Disney World resorts? We’ve got you covered! This guide tells you about all of the best Disney World resort hotels – and the ones that aren’t quite as great – so you can choose the best accommodation option for you and your family!
This list will include some of the best resorts at Disney World like the Polynesian Village Resort, Coronado Springs Resort, and Pop Century Resort!
I have over 30 years of experience at Disney World and I will hold your hand and walk you through the best resorts. I have personally stayed at these and will share all of my advice below!
Trust me, I know that deciding which Disney World resort to stay at is a difficult choice. With 20 different options across the value, moderate, and deluxe categories, it can be difficult to decide which one will be the best Disney resort for your group!
Disney Deluxe Resorts
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is one of the best Disney World resorts. The relaxing island theme is pervasive throughout the property, from the lei you’re given when you enter to the many restaurants at this Disney deluxe resort. This is easily one of my all-time favorite Disney hotels and a total bucket-list stay!
Upsides
There are so many upsides to this Disney World resort. First, the transportation situation is fantastic. You can easily take a boat to Magic Kingdom, the monorail to Epcot, and then busses to everywhere else.
Plus, because the resort is so close to Magic Kingdom, you can actually get a stunning view of the fireworks show – including the music – without even entering the park! That makes it a great choice of where to stay at Disney World.
The food scene at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is also amazing. With over a dozen different dining options, there are so many delicious spots to choose from. Consider dining at Ohana, one of the best Disney World dining options, for either the character breakfast or dinner.
Perhaps stop by Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto during a bar crawl, or maybe stop by the Pineapple Lanai for an iconic Dole Whip.
Lastly, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort provides one of the most unique accommodation options offered at any of the Disney World Resorts: overwater bungalows. These bungalows can sleep up to eight guests and include a full kitchen, a private deck, a washer and dryer, and a plunge pool.
Hands down, this is one of the best Disney Deluxe Resorts!
Downsides
The one major downside of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is the price. Because it is a Disney deluxe resort with all of these fantastic amenities, that’s reflected in the cost of the rooms. But wow, what a stay!
Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
Disney’s Yacht Club Resort is another one of the best Disney World resorts. Between the little nautical touches and the huge, exciting Stormalong Bay pool and water park, everyone will find something to enjoy at this New England-inspired Disney deluxe resort.
Fun Fact: This was my childhood resort when my parents used to take me to Disney!
Upsides
The first MAJOR upside of Disney’s Yacht Club is Stormalong Bay, the on-site pool. This three-acre waterpark includes a sand-bottom pool, lazy river, and a 230-foot-long water slide. The Yacht Club is definitely one of the Disney Resorts with the best pools!
Second, the transportation options are fantastic as well. Both Epcot and the Skyliner are within walking distance of this Disney World resort, and Hollywood Studios is a short boat ride away.
We can’t talk about the upsides of this Disney World resort without mentioning the food! The most popular is the Beaches & Cream Soda Shop. This old-fashioned ice cream parlor serves up some of the craziest shakes, sodas, and sundaes, including the Kitchen Sink Sundae, which includes basically everything ice cream-related in the shop.
Lastly, Disney’s Yacht Club also happens to be one of the few WDW resorts that is dog-friendly, so you can bring your canine friend along with you on your vacation! So bring your pup and stay at one of the top Disney resorts.
Downsides
One downside to this amazing Disney World resort is its lack of solid quick-service dining options. After a day at the park, sometimes all you want to do is order some fast, good food and head to bed. However, the quick service options at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort are simply mediocre at best.
Disney’s Beach Club Resort
Adjacent to Disney’s Yacht Club Resort is Disney’s Beach Club Resort. Since they are sister resorts, they share a lot of the same amenities. The only real difference between the two is that while Disney’s Yacht Club Resort has a slightly more posh, nautical vibe, Disney’s Beach Club Resort has a more relaxed, beachy vibe.
If I had to pick one resort to stay at forever at Disney, it would be the Beach Club. Incredible place!
Upsides
Because Disney’s Beach Club Resort shares amenities with Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, guests at this Disney World resort also have access to Stormalong Bay. It also has the same amazing transportation and dining options as Disney’s Yacht Club Resort.
Plus, Beach Club is the closest resort to Epcot. You can walk to the International Gateway in just a few minutes, and that puts it on our list of best hotels on Disney property.
If I had to only pick one, I personally would pick the Beach Club, especially because I am an Epcot girl.
Downsides
Just like Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, Disney’s Beach Club Resort lacks good quality quick service options.
However, unlike Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, Disney’s Beach Club Resort is not dog-friendly. Basically, if you would like to bring your pet along with you on your trip, consider staying at Disney’s Yacht Club instead.
Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
Between its Coney Island-influence and array of engaging activities, Disney’s BoardWalk Inn has a unique vibe, unlike any other Disney Orlando resort. You can play carnival games, go clubbing, experience the sights and smells of a traditional boardwalk, or simply take in the views of Crescent Lake.
Fun Fact: Growing up, we watched the Boardwalk being built during our stays at the Yacht Club! We were some of the first guests at the Boardwalk back when it opened!
Upsides
The location is definitely a reason that Disney’s BoardWalk Inn is one of the best Disney World resorts. Not only is it located on the fun-filled BoardWalk complete with food, views, and entertainment, it is also a short walk away from Epcot and the Skyliner. Plus, because of its close proximity to Epcot, guests can also get fantastic views of the Epcot fireworks each night.
The theming of this resort is also a major perk. The carousel horses, retro lounge, and turn-of-the-century charm are beautiful and unique touches. It feels very elegant overall and it’s definitely one of the nicest hotels in Disney World.
Downsides
Unlike many other Disney World resorts, Disney’s BoardWalk Inn does not have any restaurants within the resort. Instead, you have to venture out onto the actual BoardWalk to get some food.
While that isn’t a far distance at all, it’s just slightly less convenient. Almost everything is outside, so weather can play a big part in that, as well as none of the food options stay open as late as they do at other resorts.
Disney’s BoardWalk Inn is also a bit more adult-focused rather than kid-friendly. Many of the activities, including fishing and clubbing, appeal much more to adults.
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
The Victorian-style Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is one of the prettiest places to stay on property! This iconic resort is one of Disney World’s best hotels, and the resort that most people associate with Disney World. Even the views of Cinderella’s Castle in Magic Kingdom add another level of classiness.
Upsides
The dining options at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa uphold the elegant, classy ambiance portrayed by the rest of the resort’s theme. For example, Victoria & Albert’s is by far the most sophisticated of any of the Walt Disney World restaurants.
But you can’t forget about Citrico’s or Narcoossee’s either – the upscale food options alone make this one of the best places to stay in Disney World.
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is also well-known for its extravagant seasonal installations. At Christmas, the chefs at this Disney deluxe resort whip up an almost life-size gingerbread house, complete with a chimney that puffs out scented gingerbread. And at Easter, the chefs create some of the most extravagant sweet Easter eggs on the planet.
Lastly, I have to mention this Disney World resort’s proximity to Magic Kingdom. It’s just one monorail stop away from Magic Kingdom, which means you can also get stunning views of the Magic Kingdom fireworks from this resort.
Downsides
The biggest downside to Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is that it is the most expensive accommodation out of all of the Disney World resorts. The most affordable room still costs over $600 per night!
Another downside to this Disney World resort is the fact that it’s fancy or stuffy theming might not be exactly what kids want. To many little ones, the elegance of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa might not seem as inviting as the theming of some of the other Disney World resorts.
Disney’s Contemporary Resort
As one of the original Disney World resorts, Disney’s Contemporary Resort has a lot to offer. Between its modern flair, fantastic food options, and location, this Disney deluxe resort is always in demand.
This was the first resort I ever stayed at as a kid! There are photos of toddler me here. And it still remains one of my top picks!
Upsides
The biggest upside to staying at Disney’s Contemporary Resort is the fact that you can walk to Magic Kingdom. That means that you’ll also get stunning views of the fireworks show each night, and some guests have even reported being able to hear the music that accompanies the show!
If you get one of those theme park view rooms, you will have an experience unlike any other at a Disney hotel, and this could make it the best hotel to stay at Disney World.
Disney’s Contemporary Resort also boasts fantastic dining options, including California Grill and Steakhouse 71, some of the best restaurants on the property.
Downsides
Since Disney’s Contemporary Resort was built in 1971, it has lost a little bit of its contemporary flair. It is also a fairly expensive hotel – especially for those theme park view rooms! It’s often cheaper to stay in the Bay Lake Tower section.
Disney’s Riviera Resort
Disney’s Riviera Resort is the newest of all of the Disney World resorts, and its minimalistic yet elegant design portrays that. In its design, Disney considered its guests’ requests, particularly in terms of transportation and the range of room options.
Upsides
The transportation situation at Disney’s Riviera Resort is fantastic! With the Skyliner, guests of this Disney World resort can easily travel to both Hollywood Studios and Epcot.
Disney’s Riviera Resort also offers a very wide range of room options. While you rent a cozy tower studio for two adults, you can also stay in a three-bedroom villa that sleeps up to twelve people (and, of course, everything in between)! Basically, no matter the size of your group, this Disney World resort will have a room for you.
The Riviera Resort also has some fantastic dining options. Topolino’s Terrace could be one of the best meals on property, and having access to this great restaurant makes this one of best Disney Orlando resorts.
Downsides
This resort doesn’t rank as high as the others because it’s known for being just as noisy as some of the value and moderate resorts. That’s unfortunate when you’re paying over $600 a night for comfort.
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is a beautiful property that celebrates the beauty of American nature and wilderness. As a guest of this Disney World resort, you’ll be able to hike, jog, fish, swim, and have a campfire! You can do anything you would do in one of the U.S.’ great national parks.
This place is some of my favorite theming at Disney! It is just incredible, and the pool is so fun!
Upsides
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge really goes all out with its theming, from its log cabin-inspired buildings to its expansive array of outdoor activities. Even the dining options are reminiscent of nature, like the Whispering Canyon Café and the Geyser Point Bar & Grill.
Another fantastic upside to this resort is the fact that it is one of the more affordable options out of all of the Disney deluxe resorts! So if you want to have a deluxe resort experience but are still on a budget, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge may be the best resort in Disney for you!
Downsides
As many national parks and natural gems are quite secluded, so is Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. That means that transportation from the resort to the parks is not great compared to other Deluxe counterparts. You’ll only have great transportation to Magic Kingdom.
While many of the best Disney resorts can accommodate large groups in many of their rooms, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge’s rooms can’t sleep more than four adults. That means if you have a larger family, this Disney World resort likely wouldn’t be the best for you.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Overall, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is FANTASTIC. Being able to watch stunning animals, like giraffes, zebras, ostriches, and other wild animals, all day from the comfort of your own balcony is simply a magical experience. Even the restaurants are some of the best dining options in all of Disney World!
I have stayed here multiple times, and waking up with views of the animals is just wild! Like being on a safari right here in Florida!
Upsides
First, there are the savanna rooms. While the savanna rooms cost quite a bit more than the standard rooms, they are totally worth it. You can watch 30 species of wild animals at all hours of the day from their comfort of your own balcony. That alone makes this one of the best resorts to stay at in Disney World.
But, you can’t forget about the food here, This Disney World resort also has some of the best dining options in all of Disney World, especially if you’re a bit of an adventurous eater. Two of the best restaurants, Jiko – The Cooking Place and Boma – Flavors of Africa, both infuse authentic African flavors into their dishes.
Despite all of these perks, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is still somehow less expensive than most other Disney deluxe resorts. It sounds like a steal in my opinion!
Downsides
The reason this Disney resort doesn’t rank as high as some others is because of how far it is from everything! Considering that it is a Disney deluxe resort, the transportation situation is supposed to be fabulous, but it isn’t. There isn’t any other form of transportation besides busses.
Disney Moderate Resorts
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is an amazing option for people who want a luxe experience without the expensive price tag. With its lovable Southwest atmosphere, you can get awesome food, enjoy a themed pool, and even dig in an archaeological-themed playground. For more information, check out our Disney’s Coronado Spring Resort review!
This is easily my personal favorite moderate resort option!
Upsides
The grounds at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort are absolutely stunning. The combination of Spanish, Mexican, and Southwestern influences combined with the natural beauty of Lago Dorado make the atmosphere of this Disney World resort absolutely breathtaking. This places it higher up in our Disney hotel rankings.
The restaurants at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort are also fantastic, especially for a moderate resort. You can choose from Maya Grill, Rix Sports Bar & Grill, Three Bridges Bar & Grill, and even Toledo for an upscale experience.
With the addition of the Gran Destino Tower and the amount of amazing restaurants and lounges, this resort has a very “adult” feel. It’s one of my favorites for that reason, and one of the best resorts for adults at Disney.
Lastly, the Lost City of Cibola pool is a special treat. The Lost City of Cibola pool is home to a 123-foot-long water slide and a 50-foot Mayan pyramid! This definitely helps make it one of the best Disney moderate resorts!
Downsides
The main downside of this amazing moderate Disney World resort is the fact that it’s a convention hotel. In other words, there are often large groups bustling around the resort, which, if you’re not part of one, can feel a little bit odd and crowded.
One other downside to Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is the fact that the buildings are far apart, which means that there can be quite a lot of walking. So if you have someone in your group who has a difficult time walking, this Disney World resort may not be the one for you.
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside is quiet, quaint, and beautiful. The white columns, bubbling fountains, and welcoming dining areas make you feel as if you’ve been transported to New Orleans.
Upsides
The best part of Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside is the theming. The resort is divided into two sections: Alligator Bayou (the bayou) and Magnolia Bend (the mansions). Between these two options, this Disney World resort has covered the two most iconic parts of the American South.
The theming gets a bigger upgrade in the royal guest rooms, which tie Disney Princesses into the New Orleans theme. With little princess touches, like a bedspread covered in crowns or a faucet shaped like Aladdin’s lamp, you’ll enjoy the magical theming and see why it’s one of the best Disney World hotels.
If you’re looking to get away from the slow, Southern vibes, you can easily hop on a boat to Disney Springs, where you can shop at amazing stores and dine at fantastic restaurants.
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside also happens to be one of the rare dog-friendly Disney World resorts. So if you want to bring your furry friend with you, consider staying at this resort.
Downsides
The main complaint from guests staying at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort is the fact that the property is very large and far from many other parts of Walt Disney World.
Plus the boat transportation only takes you to Disney Springs and not to any of the parks.
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
Riverside has a sister resort, which is Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter. In this Disney World resort, you get to experience a bit more of the Mardi Gras side of New Orleans. Listen to fantastic jazz music at Scat Cat’s Club and enjoy some Mickey-shaped beignets while you’re there.
This is another personal favorite! It is giving so much NOLA fun!
Upsides
Just like Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter has fantastic theming. Between the cobblestone streets and iconic French Quarter-style buildings, you’ll truly feel as if you’ve been transported to New Orleans.
Enjoy jazz music and piping hot beignets at Scat Cat’s Club. Or perhaps go for a swim at the Mardi Gras-themed pool known as Doubloon Lagoon.
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter does have a major advantage over its Riverside counterpart: its size. While many guests complain about the amount of walking you have to do at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter is much more compact.
The vibe here is definitely more upbeat and exciting than its sister Riverside, and that makes it one of the more fun and quirky on-property Disney hotels.
Downsides
Unfortunately, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter does not include a table service restaurant. While you could pop over to Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside or Disney Springs for a table service restaurant, it’s just simply not as convenient as having a table service restaurant in the resort.
The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Lodge
The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Lodge offer guests a chance to get away from all of the hustle and bustle of the Disney parks and embrace a bit of nature.
In my teens, we grew up camping at Fort Wilderness and I have used the cabins multiple times in my life. Let’s talk the pros and cons!
Upsides
By far, the biggest upside to the Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Lodge is its setting. While at this Disney World resort, you have the opportunity to breathe in the fresh pine air, wander along scenic trails, and even catch glimpses of cute wildlife.
The onsite activities offered at this Disney World resort definitely make use of this amazing setting. You can try your hand at archery, explore the lake with a canoe or kayak rentals, experience a pony ride, or enjoy an awesome campfire sing-a-long. All these non-theme park activities help make this one of the best hotels to stay in Walt Disney World.
While the location is amazing, the cabin also comes fully stocked with amenities. Enjoy access to a full kitchen (where you don’t have to do the dishes, because housekeeping does that for you), a full living room, and a private patio. To make your vacation a little easier, remember to pre-order groceries before your stay.
Downsides
The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Lodge only offer one type of room option: a cabin for six. This makes it one of the best options for larger groups. But if you’re a couple looking for a nice weekend cabin getaway, it’s definitely not ideal to have to pay for extra for a cabin that sleeps six.
Because the Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Lodge sleep six (rather than the usual four or five that the average Disney moderate resort), the price is quite a bit higher than the other Disney moderate resorts.
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
As its name implies, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort is inspired by the beautiful Caribbean Islands. However, this inspiration did not exactly translate into reality, as it’s hard to distinguish this Disney World resort from any other Florida resort. That said, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort does have a couple of special rooms and dining perks.
Upsides
Caribbean Beach’s best feature is the access to the Skyliner! You can take a quick ride to Epcot or Hollywood Studios, or even head to the Riviera Resort, Pop Century, or Art of Animation to explore!
Also, there is an epic pirate-themed pool: Fuentes del Morro pool. This pool includes two water slides, water cannons, and a play area filled with tons of pirate-themed fun!
Lastly, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort has quite an array of dining options. Grab a filling burger or taco trio from Spyglass Grill, sip on a tropical specialty drink from Banana Cabana, or take a seat and enjoy some Latin and Caribbean flavors at Sebastian’s Bistro.
Downsides
As I mentioned before, the theming at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort isn’t really anything special. The bold colors and tall palm trees are touches that can be found at just about any Florida resort.
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort also happens to be one of the most spread out properties out of all of the Disney World resorts. We don’t recommend it for those who may have a hard time walking long distances, or with little ones after a long day in the park.
Some of the food may also be too adventurous for picky eaters. Keep this in mind when thinking about what meals you may have at the resort.
Disney Value Resorts
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is possibly the best Disney value resorts. Inspired by many of the animated Disney movies, including Finding Nemo, The Lion King, and Cars, every Disney lover is sure to have a blast at this WDW resort. In other words, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is definitely the best Disney World value resort in terms of both affordability and theming.
Upsides
Despite the fact that Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is a Disney value resort, it has some of the best themes in all of Walt Disney World. Your favorite animated Disney characters have found their places all around the resort, from the sketches in the lobby to the entryways of the buildings.
But, by far, the most heavily-themed parts of the resort are the pools. Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is home to the largest pool found at any of the Walt Disney World resorts: the Big Blue Pool, inspired by Finding Nemo. On top of that, there is also the Cozy Cone Pool inspired by Cars and the Flippin’ Fins Pool inspired by The Little Mermaid.
The theming also finds its way into the rooms and suites offered at this fantastic Disney World resort. You’ll have the opportunity to choose to stay in a standard family suite or a room or suite inspired by The Little Mermaid, The Lion King, Cars, or Finding Nemo. These family suites make this one of the best resorts for families at Disney.
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort may be one of the best Disney resorts in terms of transportation too. The Skyliner easily takes guests from this Disney World resort to both Epcot and Hollywood Studios. Having multiple transportation options at a value resort makes this one of the best hotels at Disney World.
Downsides
All of these amazing perks don’t come up without a reflective price tag, unfortunately. While it is a Disney value resort, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is the most expensive Disney value resort.
One other downside to this Disney World resort is that there is spotty cell phone and Wi-Fi service. While this isn’t convenient, it’s also not the worst thing in the world.
Disney’s Pop Century Resort
Following Disney’s Art of Animation Resort as the second-best Disney value resort is Disney’s Pop Century Resort. This Orel takes guests back in time to the trends of the from the 1950s all the way to the 1990s, like rollerblades and Rubik’s Cubes.
Still a great pick if Art of Animation is too expensive or not open for your dates. The Skyliner is a HUGE pro!
Upsides
One of the best perks of staying at Disney’s Pop Century Resort is the price. With rooms for four starting around $130 per night, it’s quite reasonable for a Disney property.
The pricing becomes even more reasonable when you consider the fun theming of this Disney World resort. From the 1960s-themed Hippy Dippy pool to the classic and modern games at the Fast Forward Arcade, you and your family are sure to have a wonderful time at Disney’s Pop Century Resort.
Lastly, the transportation situation at this Disney World resort is quite good. In addition to having buses dedicated to this particular resort, the Skyliner also easily takes guests of this accommodation to Epcot and Hollywood Studios. Just like at Art of Animation, the transportation alone makes this one of the best hotels in Disney World.
Downsides
This Disney World resort happens to be one of the more spread out resorts on the property. So if you don’t want to walk a bunch after your day at the park, this Disney resort option may not be the one for you.
Also, just like Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, the cell phone service and Wi-Fi are a bit spotty at this Disney World resort. If you are having a hard time choosing the Value resort, read our comparison between Art Of Animation Vs Pop Century to help you choose!
The Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort
Just like the Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort, the Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort give guests a chance to escape from the busy Disney parks and resort life. The Campsites are just a bit more rugged than its cabin counterpart, as you’ll get to set up a tent or rent a camper rather than sleep in a cabin.
I have camped here many times, and visited friends camping here many times, it is all around a GREAT time!
Upsides
In case full-on camping seems a bit too rugged for you and your group, it’s important to note that all of the campsites come with all the necessary amenities, including a charcoal grill, electricity, running water, and even Wi-Fi. Those definitely aren’t guaranteed at most camping spots!
Camping always comes with a fun set of activities, and the Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort is no exception. This Disney World resort includes pony rides, fishing, kayak rentals, and so much more!
Downsides
For many, the Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort may be roughing it a bit too much. Rather than a relaxing vacation complete with housekeeping, this alternative accommodation might be a little out of most people’s comfort zones.
Another downside to this Disney World resort is the confusing transportation system – both inside the resort and within it.
Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort
Some of your favorite Disney characters have found their home at Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort, including Pongo and Perdita from 101 Dalmatians and many of the toys from Toy Story. While there, enjoy a Fantasia-themed pool and quick service dining from World Premiere Food Court.
Out of the three themes, I love Movies the most, but I have stayed at all three. This is my Mom’s go-to stay for affordable Run Disney accommodations.
Upsides
The affordability of Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort is a huge draw for many guests. Rooms start at $99 per night and sleep up to four guests.
The theming of this Disney World resort is also great, as you can clearly see the connection to Disney. Check out Mickey conjuring up some magic at the pool just like in Fantasia or watch Pongo and Perdita glance lovingly at each other in the 101 Dalmatians section.
Downsides
Unfortunately, the transportation from Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort isn’t great. The resort isn’t close to the parks, so you will need to add a little extra time for travel.
Disney’s All-Star Music Resort
Whether its pop, rock, or country, everyone loves some form of music, and that’s encapsulated at Disney’s All-Star Music Resort. Every nook and cranny of this Disney World Resort has found its connection to music, whether it’s the guitar-shaped pool or the Intermission Food Court.
I think that the theming is fun here and it is a solid affordable choice!
Upsides
The biggest upside to Disney’s All-Star Music Resort is its affordability. With rooms starting at $99 per night for four people, it’s a great accommodation option for families on a budget.
Another great perk of this Disney World resort is its theming. Because everyone loves music, you’d be hard-pressed to find someone who can’t find some enjoyment in this resort. And Disney has, of course, found a way to add a little bit of its magic through the Three Caballeros Fountain in the guitar-shaped pool.
Downsides
As with most of the Disney value resorts, the transportation situation isn’t the best. While Animal Kingdom isn’t too far away, the other three require quite a long commute.
Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort
Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort’s niche theming and poor location make it not one of our favorites. While it is the one of most affordable resorts, it really doesn’t feel like Disney, so the question becomes, is it even worth it?
If you have kids who love sports or your family love sports, this may be a good choice for you, but I am not personally a sports fan, so it is the weakest of the All-Star resorts for me.
Upsides
If I’m being honest, the only real upside to Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort is the fact that it’s affordable. A standard room that sleeps four people costs just $99 per night. Compared to the other Disney World Resorts, that’s definitely the cheapest (with the exception of the Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort).
Downsides
The sports theme is very limited, so, unless everyone in your group is into sports, it won’t be enjoyable for everyone. As a matter of fact, it’s so sports-focused that it actually doesn’t seem to have that much of a connection to Disney.
The theming is much better at the other two All-Star resorts, and for the same price, you might as well stay at one of those instead.
Another downside to Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort is the fact that it’s very far from the parks. While you can get to Animal Kingdom pretty easily using the Disney bus system, the other three parks require a rather complicated route.
So that completes our list of the best Disney World resorts! We hope that this guide will help you decide where to stay at Disney World. What do you think? Do you agree or disagree? Let us know in the comments what you think the best Disney World resorts are! And if you need any more tips or tricks, check out all our articles on our Disney Planning Page.
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Valerie
Caribbean Beach does NOT have elevators, so if you have a second floor room, be prepared to haul your luggage up the stairs. I find this hard to believe in light of the AWDA. It’s also frequently home to large groups of young people competing at WWOS.
H. Murdock
We had the same problem with people staying at Port Orleans. It was full of people from WWOS when we were there. They were everywhere according to the cast member who booked our room.
MJ
Also worth mentioning that All Star Music and Art of Animation are the only Value resorts that have Family suites that can sleep up to 6 people and have 2 separate bathrooms ! Much better than some of the cabins at Wilderness.
disneytrippers
YES! Thanks for sharing!!
This list really shocked me. Wilderness Lodge and Animal Kingdom Lodge on the worst list?? This is the first Best/Worst list I’ve ever seen those two make the worst list. Wilderness Lodge is incredibly popular & the first Deluxe resort to consistently book up. I don’t know of anyone who’s stayed there that hasn’t loved it. There is a boat to take visitors to Magic Kingdom, so buses aren’t the only option. And while Animal Kingdom Lodge only offers bus transportation, it’s the only resort offering a view of wild animals from your room. That’s pretty priceless compared to a five-minute-longer bus ride. Deluxe resorts aren’t only about alternate transportation options, it’s about the amenities. And you can’t beat the amenities at AKL.
It’s also good to note that neither Caribbean Beach Resort nor Port Orleans Riverside have elevators. So if you’re mobility impaired (including those who aren’t in wheelchairs), you will have to reserve a handicapped-accessible room to ensure a room on the ground floor. And unless you want a boat to Disney Springs option, choose Caribbean over Riverside. While both resorts are really spread out, Caribbean has quick service location spread on the far end of the resort. Riverside’s dining is only in the main building. So if you have a princess room, you’re walking a bit to get food. And the Fuentes del Morrow swimming pool at Caribbean is heads above the pool at Riverside for kids, consistently ranking in the “best swimming pools on Disney property” lists.
Thank you so much for sharing this detailed comment and your thoughts!!
Incorrect information supplied by PegP about lack of elevators in Port Orleans Riverside. There are elevators in the central part of the hotel. We stay in Riverside every time we visit WDW.
The first Disney resort that I took my family to were the Fort Wilderness cabins. Other than the boat to MK, the transportation here is awful. You are so isolated that I would never go back. The cabins are cramp for 2 adults and 2 children. The only thing I liked were the armadillos! Boardwalk Villas were a major upgrade as were the Grand Floridian villas and the Bay Tower. Obviously the latter three were twice as much money or more but you get what you pay for.
The reason you go to Disney is for the parks. Doesn’t it make sense to be within close proximity to the parks to maximize your fun? Who wants to spend half a day on a bus!!!
You got it wrong, at least as far as Wilderness Lodge is concerned. We stayed there for the first time in Sept. 1994. We have made many trips back over the year. Each time we consider staying somewhere else, but always decide to come back home to the Wilderness Lodge. No other resort comes close for us. It is so beautiful and comfortable. We have never had an issue with transportation, except on our last trip. The issues were COVID related. Our girls are grown now, but all of their grown up trips include staying at the Wilderness Lodge. Only down side is the ugly refurb of the rooms that was recently done. They definitely didn’t get their money’s worth from the designer they hired.