Planning a magical vacation to Disney World can be an exciting yet overwhelming task. Especially when it comes to choosing the perfect hotel to meet your needs and expectations.
With a plethora of options ranging from budget-friendly to luxurious accommodations, it’s essential to consider various factors such as proximity to theme parks, amenities, and overall theme when making your decision.
The best Disney hotels offer a balance of convenience, comfort, and immersive experiences that make your vacation memorable. From value resorts that cater to budget-conscious travelers to deluxe resorts that provide top-of-the-line amenities and services. There’s a Disney hotel for every preference and price range.
Furthermore, certain hotels offer exceptional pools, honeymoon packages, and even the opportunity to use hotel points, adding to the appeal of staying on Disney property.
Key Takeaways
- A wide variety of Disney hotels cater to different preferences, budgets, and travel needs.
- Consider factors such as theme park access, amenities, and general ambiance when choosing the best Disney hotel for your vacation.
- Some hotels offer unique perks, like superb pools, honeymoon specials, and the ability to utilize hotel points.
Best Disney Hotels
Grand Floridian Resort
The Grand Floridian Resort is often regarded as Disney World’s flagship hotel. Known for its Victorian elegance, it offers luxurious accommodations and top-notch dining options. With its close proximity to the Magic Kingdom, guests can easily enjoy their days exploring the park.
Polynesian Village Resort
The Polynesian Village Resort transports guests to a South Pacific paradise, complete with lush gardens, beautiful lagoons, and traditional longhouses. In addition to its exotic ambiance, the resort is home to some spectacular dining options, such as ‘Ohana and the famous Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto.
Yacht Club Resort
Styled after a New England yacht club, the Yacht Club Resort offers a distinctly nautical theme, upscale amenities, and shared access to the impressive Stormalong Bay pool complex. This resort is within walking distance of both EPCOT and Disney’s BoardWalk. This makes it perfect for guests who want easy access to various entertainment options.
Animal Kingdom Lodge
For fans of wildlife and African culture, the Animal Kingdom Lodge is a dream destination. The resort features views of its own savannah, where over 30 species of African animals roam freely. Guests can take part in unique cultural activities and enjoy the resort’s remarkably themed dining options, such as Boma and Sanaa.
Beach Club Resort
Located along the shores of Crescent Lake, the Beach Club Resort offers a relaxing beachside atmosphere and direct access to the outstanding Stormalong Bay pool complex. Guests can enjoy the picturesque walk to EPCOT or hop on a boat to Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Wilderness Lodge
Inspired by the grand lodges of the American Northwest, the Wilderness Lodge provides a rustic and cozy retreat. Guests can appreciate the resort’s stunning design, complete with a towering fireplace in the lobby, and indulge in some unique dining experiences, such as the popular Whispering Canyon Café.
Contemporary Resort
The sleek and modern Contemporary Resort is a Disney icon, recognized for its unique A-frame structure and the monorail passing through the lobby. Guests can relish stunning views of Magic Kingdom and Bay Lake while dining at California Grill, the resort’s signature restaurant.
Boardwalk Inn
Evoke the nostalgia of turn-of-the-century Atlantic City at the Boardwalk Inn. This picturesque resort features a vibrant boardwalk filled with unique shops, dining venues, and exciting entertainment options. With its premier location, guests can easily walk to EPCOT and enjoy the nighttime spectaculars across the lagoon.
Best Value Disney Resort
Staying at a Disney Value Resort can be a great option for those visiting Disney World on a budget. These hotels provide in-park lodging and some of the best perks that other Disney resorts offer while still maintaining affordable prices for budget-conscious families.
In this section, we will discuss the best Value Disney Resort available for you to make your magical vacation all the more enjoyable.
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is a top choice among visitors seeking high-quality accommodations at a lower price point. This resort is known for its immersive theming and larger-than-life characters from popular Disney films, such as “The Lion King,” “Finding Nemo,” and “Cars.”
Guests staying at Art of Animation Resort can enjoy comfortable family suites. They offer ample space and convenience for larger groups.
Disney’s Pop Century Resort
Another fantastic option for a value resort is my #1 suggestion. This nostalgic hotel takes you on a trip down memory lane with its fun and quirky themes inspired by pop culture from the 1950s to the 1990s.
Guests can relive their favorite memories while enjoying access to comfortable rooms, a variety of dining options, and multiple pools to cool off after a day at the parks.
For guests interested in a more sports-themed experience, Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort is an excellent choice. This resort features larger-than-life sports icons, and its vibrant decor brings the excitement of various sports to life.
Guests can choose between themed rooms, such as basketball, baseball, tennis, and more. The resort also offers a wide range of dining options and recreation areas to suit the interests and needs of all guests.
When choosing the best Disney Value Resort for your vacation, it’s essential to take into account your family’s preferences and needs.
Each resort offers unique features and themes, and by selecting the perfect one for your family, you can enhance your overall experience while managing your expenses.
Best Moderate Disney Resort
Disney offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors, including moderate resorts that provide a balance between affordability and amenities.
With each having its unique personality, these resorts offer guests a great experience without breaking the bank. In this section, we’ll examine some of the top moderate Disney resorts available.
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter is one of the highly recommended moderate resorts at Disney World. This beautifully themed resort takes guests into the charming atmosphere of New Orleans, complete with cobblestone streets and wrought-iron balconies.
Guests can enjoy amenities such as pools with water slides, a picturesque riverwalk, and an on-site beignet café.
Another excellent option for a moderate Disney resort is the Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort. These spacious, rustic cabins allow guests to experience a more natural setting surrounded by lush forests while still enjoying the comforts of home.
Fort Wilderness offers various activities, including horseback riding, canoeing, and nightly campfires.
For those seeking a more culturally inspired experience, the Gran Destino Tower at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is an excellent choice.
The hotel combines Spanish and Mexican aesthetics, giving guests a taste of classic European elegance mixed with contemporary design. This tower offers modern amenities and a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of Disney World.
Lastly, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort is another noteworthy moderate option that transports guests to a relaxed island paradise. With its colorful architecture and lush landscaping, this resort creates the perfect atmosphere for a laid-back vacation.
Guests can enjoy a variety of pools, dining options, and entertaining activities across its five themed island villages.
Each of these moderate Disney resorts offers its unique flair and amenities, providing guests with a comfortable and enjoyable stay while exploring the magic of Disney World.
Best Disney Deluxe Resorts
Disney Deluxe Resorts offers guests an elevated level of luxury and amenities compared to their Value and Moderate counterparts.
These top-tier options provide stunning rooms and beautiful outdoor areas and host some of Disney’s Signature dining experiences. Here are some of the best Disney Deluxe Resorts for your next vacation.
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Transports guests to a South Pacific paradise with its lush landscaping, tiki torches, and white sandy beaches. This resort is located on the monorail line, making it an effortless journey to the Magic Kingdom and Epcot. We list this property as one of the best Deluxe Disney World resorts.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Offers an immersive experience, surrounding guests with African-inspired architecture and the opportunity to view wild animals outside their windows. Despite its location next to Animal Kingdom, there is no special transportation to the park. Nevertheless, this resort’s unique ambiance and exceptional amenities make it a top choice for visitors.
Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Is famous for its iconic A-frame design, featuring a monorail station within the resort itself. This hotel, with its striking modern architecture and proximity to the Magic Kingdom, is another favorite among Disney Deluxe Resorts, according to The Points Guy.
Guests seeking comfort and elegance by the sea should consider Disney’s Yacht Club Resort and Disney’s Beach Club Resort. These nautical-themed properties are situated around Crescent Lake, and guests can walk or take a boat to Epcot and Hollywood Studios.
Disney’s Beach Club Resort also hosts the popular Stormalong Bay pool area, making it ideal for families with children who love swimming and water activities.
Finally, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge offers a rustic retreat inspired by the Pacific Northwest’s National Park lodges. Located near Magic Kingdom but not directly on the monorail, this resort provides guests with a serene getaway amidst the excitement of the theme parks.
Each of these Disney Deluxe Resorts has its unique charm, theming, and amenities to offer visitors. When planning your magical vacation, consider one of these deluxe properties to enhance your Disney experience.
Best Disney World Resort Pools
Disney World is home to a variety of fantastic resort pools, perfect for cooling off after a fun-filled day in the parks. One of the most notable is the Stormalong Bay, which you can find at Disney’s Yacht Club & Beach Club Resorts. This impressive 3-acre water playground features a sandy bottom, zero-entry pool, and beach-like surroundings.
Another top choice is the Lost City of Cibola Pool at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort. Guests can swim in the shadow of a Maya temple, making for both an exciting and visually stunning experience.
For those staying at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge – Jambo House, the Uzima Pool is a must-visit. As one of Disney World’s largest pools, Uzima Springs boasts 234,980 gallons of aquatic fun.
The pool is surrounded by animal viewing areas featuring flamingos, adding a unique touch to your swimming experience.
A few additional options for amazing resort pools include:
- Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin: These sister hotels offer a combined total of five pools, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
- Hilton Orlando Buena Vista Palace: This Disney Springs Area hotel features a stunning pool complex with a lazy river and waterslide.
- DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Orlando: Located in the Disney Springs Area, this hotel offers a fun pool experience with a grotto-style waterslide.
Each of these Disney World resort pools offers guests unique and memorable experiences to help take their vacation to the next level. No matter which resort you choose, you’re sure to find a delightful and refreshing pool to cool off in.
Best Disney World Resorts for Easy Access to the Theme Parks
When planning a trip to Disney World, choosing a hotel with easy access to the theme parks can make your vacation even more enjoyable.
In this section, we will highlight some of the best Disney World resorts offering effortless access to various theme parks, making it simple for guests to navigate.
One of the top options is Disney’s Contemporary Resort, which is just a short walk or monorail ride away from the Magic Kingdom. With its modern design and convenient location, guests can quickly reach the park and enjoy additional amenities such as world-class dining options and a beautiful pool area.
Another excellent choice is Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, which also provides easy access to the Magic Kingdom via the monorail or a relaxing boat ride across the Seven Seas Lagoon.
This resort offers a unique, tropical atmosphere, complete with lush gardens, a white-sand beach, and themed restaurants.
Epcot or Hollywood Studios
For those who prefer to stay a bit closer to Epcot or Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney’s BoardWalk Inn is a charming option.
Located within walking distance of both parks, this waterfront resort features an exciting boardwalk filled with shops, dining establishments, and entertainment options designed to enhance your stay.
Another option for Epcot and Hollywood Studios access is Disney’s Yacht Club Resort and Disney’s Beach Club Resort, which give guests the opportunity to experience the best of both worlds.
These resorts are nestled along the picturesque Crescent Lake, with a short walk or boat ride to the nearby theme parks.
The resorts also share a unique sand-bottom pool known as Stormalong Bay, adding an extra luxury touch to your vacation.
By selecting one of these exceptional Disney World resorts, you can ensure that your family has convenient access to the theme parks, allowing you to make the most of your vacation.
Each hotel provides a distinct atmosphere while offering top-notch amenities and entertainment options to create a memorable Disney World experience.
Best Disney World Hotel Based On Theme
One of the top Disney World hotels for its theme is Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. This tropical-themed resort transports guests to the South Pacific with lush landscaping, tiki torches, and bamboo accents. Relax in the themed, spacious rooms and enjoy unique dining experiences like ‘Ohana and Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto.
For families seeking a bit of adventure, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort offers magnificent island vibes. The resort’s vibrant Caribbean-themed bungalows are inspired by various Caribbean islands, creating a sense of being away on an exotic vacation. Your little ones will adore the pirate-themed rooms complete with ship-style beds and rum barrel nightstands.
Nostalgia takes center stage at Disney’s Pop Century Resort, where each decade from the 1950s to the 1990s is represented through clever theming and decor. Iconic pop culture elements delight guests throughout their stay, immersing them in a whimsical fusion of past and present.
Finally, for those who adore the ambiance of historic seaside towns, Disney’s BoardWalk Inn recreates the charm of the American East Coast. With its elegant nautical decor, beautiful waterfront views, and lively entertainment, this resort presents a fantastic vintage atmosphere just a stone’s throw away from popular Disney theme parks.
Best Disney World Hotel for Honeymoons
If you’re planning a honeymoon at Disney World, selecting the perfect hotel can make your experience even more memorable. One hotel that stands out for honeymooners is Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. This luxurious resort offers a combination of classic theming and upscale amenities, providing a romantic atmosphere for newlyweds.
The Grand Floridian is situated on the shores of the Seven Seas Lagoon, making it well-located for easy access to the Magic Kingdom. Guests can take a short ride on the monorail or enjoy a leisurely stroll to reach the park. The resort is also close to Epcot, which can be accessed via monorail as well.
When it comes to dining options, the Grand Floridian does not disappoint. The resort features several top-notch restaurants, including the Signature Dining experience at Victoria & Albert’s. This fine-dining restaurant offers a six-course prix fixe menu and boasts a AAA Five Diamond rating.
Other dining options at the resort include the relaxed Garden View Tea Room, where guests can enjoy a traditional afternoon tea service, and the lively Grand Floridian Café, which offers delicious American fare.
Honeymooners may also enjoy the various recreational activities available at the resort. The Grand Floridian features two swimming pools, a white-sand beach, and a marina with various watercraft rentals. For those seeking relaxation, the Senses Spa offers a range of rejuvenating treatments, while fitness enthusiasts can stay active at the resort’s exercise facility.
With its elegant atmosphere, fantastic dining options, and excellent location, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is the ideal choice for couples looking to celebrate their honeymoon in the enchanting world of Disney.
Best Disney World Resorts for Using Hotel Points
When planning a magical trip to Disney World, one of the top considerations is finding the perfect hotel. If you have hotel points saved up and you’re looking to use them, there are several fantastic Disney World resorts to choose from. In this section, we’ll highlight some of the best Disney World resorts for those looking to redeem their hotel points.
Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin
Located in the heart of the Walt Disney World Resort. These luxury hotels offer a wide range of amenities, such as numerous dining options, spa services, and multiple pools. For travelers with Marriott Bonvoy points, both the Swan and the Dolphin provide excellent redemption options.
Walt Disney World Swan Reserve
A newer, more contemporary boutique hotel. With fantastic dining options on the property and picturesque views of the surrounding areas, the Swan Reserve offers a more exclusive and intimate experience for guests using their Marriott Bonvoy points.
For Hilton Honors members, there are several great choices as well. The Hilton Orlando Buena Vista Palace Disney Springs Area provides upscale accommodations and is situated just a short distance from Disney Springs. Alongside, the Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista – Disney Springs Area is another option just around the corner, providing easy access to Disney Springs’ shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
Additionally, the DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Orlando – Disney Springs Area also caters to Hilton Honors members looking to redeem their points. This all-suite hotel boasts spacious rooms, multiple dining options, and a complimentary shuttle service to the Disney theme parks.
Lastly, the Holiday Inn Resort Orlando Suites – Waterpark is a fantastic option for IHG Rewards Club members. This family-oriented resort features a waterpark, various dining options, and character meet-and-greets for the younger guests.
In conclusion, when it comes to using hotel points to redeem stays at Disney World hotels, there are plenty of fantastic options for every kind of traveler. Just be sure to book early and enjoy the numerous benefits and amenities these hotels have to offer.
Planning Your Disney Vacation
When planning a Disney vacation, there’re several aspects to consider in order to make the most of your time and budget. In this section, we will cover travel packages and discounts, maximizing your time in the parks, and staying in the Disney bubble.
Travel Packages and Discounts
There are many ways to save money on a Disney vacation, such as by booking a bundled travel package. Bundled packages usually include accommodations at one of the Disney Resorts, park tickets, and sometimes even dining plans.
Keep an eye out for special offers and deals that Disney may release throughout the year, as these can provide significant savings on hotel stays, park tickets, and more.
Maximizing Your Time in the Parks
To make the most of your time at Walt Disney World, planning your park days is essential. Consider using Disney’s Lightning Lanes to bypass long lines and access popular attractions more quickly. Plan your trip during non-peak times, as parks will be less crowded and more manageable.
Additionally, take advantage of Extra Magic Hours – exclusive time in the Magic Kingdom available only to Disney Resort hotel guests – to enjoy attractions before the general public.
Staying in the Disney Bubble
The “Disney Bubble” refers to the immersive experience of staying at a Walt Disney World resort hotel property. Staying within this “bubble” makes it easy to access the parks, Disney Springs, and other resort amenities. Some of the best Disney hotels in 2023 include:
- Walt Disney World Swan
- Walt Disney World Dolphin
- Walt Disney World Swan Reserve
- Hilton Orlando Buena Vista Palace Disney Springs Area
- Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista – Disney Springs Area
- DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Orlando – Disney Springs Area
- Holiday Inn Resort Orlando Suites – Waterpark
Staying within the Disney Bubble not only allows for faster and more convenient access to the parks but also creates a seamless, magical experience from the moment you arrive until you depart from your Disney vacation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top Disney resorts for adults?
Disney World caters to adults as well as children, offering luxurious accommodations at resorts such as the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin and the Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. These resorts feature upscale amenities, fine dining options, and relaxing spas that make for a perfect adults-only getaway.
How do Disney World hotels rank by price?
Disney World hotels are grouped into categories based on their price range and amenities offered. Value Resorts, such as the All-Star series, are the most budget-friendly and typically start in the low $100s per night. Moderate Resorts offer more amenities and are priced slightly higher, while Deluxe Resorts and Deluxe Villa Resorts offer the best in luxury and typically have the highest price range.
Which Disney resorts offer 2 bedroom options?
Many Disney resorts offer spacious accommodations for larger families or groups, with two-bedroom options available. Some of the resorts that offer two-bedroom villas are Disney’s Beach Club Villas and Disney’s BoardWalk Villas. These villas come with fully equipped kitchens, separate living areas, and all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay.
What are the different tiers of Disney hotels?
Disney World Resorts are categorized into the following tiers: Value Resorts, Moderate Resorts, Deluxe Resorts, and Deluxe Villa Resorts. Each tier offers different levels of amenities and experiences at varying price points. From budget-friendly options like the All-Star series to indulgent luxury stays at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, there’s a Disney hotel for every taste and budget.
Which Disney hotel do celebrities usually stay at?
Celebrities visiting Disney World often choose to stay at the Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. This luxurious resort offers top-notch amenities, exquisite dining, and high levels of privacy, making it an ideal choice for a star-studded experience.
Which hotel offers the best view of Magic Kingdom?
One of the best hotels for views of the Magic Kingdom is Disney’s Contemporary Resort. This resort is located within walking distance of the theme park, allowing guests to enjoy spectacular views of Cinderella’s Castle and nightly fireworks displays from the comfort of their hotel rooms or the resort’s restaurants and lounges.