Walt Disney World Basics: Where to Stay
With four theme parks, two water parks, and an endless array of entertainment options, Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, is a vacation destination that benefits from being close to the action. Disney World offers its own resorts, classified into categories based on amenities and price, while a range of nearby hotels provide other options. Here’s what you need to know about where to stay.
On-Site Disney Resort Hotels: Categories and Experiences
Staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel offers several advantages. Guests staying on-site can enjoy perks like early park entry, free transportation within the resort, and the convenience of being closer to the parks. Disney’s on-site resorts are divided into three main categories: Value, Moderate, and Deluxe.
Value Resorts
Ideal for budget-conscious travelers, Disney’s Value Resorts offer a Disney experience at a more affordable price point. These resorts are fun, family-friendly, and packed with larger-than-life theming inspired by Disney movies, sports, and music. Although Value Resorts don’t include many of the upscale amenities found at higher-tier resorts, they do provide the essentials, such as food courts, themed pools, and complimentary transportation to the parks.
Popular Value Resorts:
Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort – Featuring buildings themed to beloved Disney films like Toy Story and 101 Dalmatians.
Disney’s Pop Century Resort – Celebrating pop culture through the decades with colorful décor and fun memorabilia.
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort – Offering family suites and rooms themed to The Little Mermaid, Finding Nemo, Cars, and The Lion King.
Perks of Value Resorts:
Budget-friendly accommodations.
Immersive theming perfect for kids and families.
Access to Disney Skyliner transportation at select Value Resorts, which connects to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios.
Value Resorts are perfect for guests who want to maximize their time at the parks and use their resort mainly for rest and relaxation after a day of adventure.
Stay prepared for Florida's sudden rain showers with a lightweight, packable poncho—perfect for keeping dry while enjoying the parks.
Moderate Resorts
Moderate Resorts balance affordability with additional amenities, offering more spacious rooms, improved dining options, and a quieter atmosphere. These resorts often feature unique themes, beautiful landscaping, and amenities like sit-down restaurants and themed pools with waterslides.
Popular Moderate Resorts:
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort – Styled after a Caribbean island paradise, with sandy beaches and a central location on the Disney Skyliner route.
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside and French Quarter – Inspired by the charm of New Orleans and the Mississippi River, with lush landscaping and jazz-inspired décor.
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort – A Southwest-themed resort with a blend of Spanish, Mexican, and Southwest influences, offering a convention center and deluxe amenities.
Perks of Moderate Resorts:
A balance of price and amenities, offering both comfort and affordability.
Beautiful, themed grounds with pools and recreational activities.
Multiple dining options, including food courts and table-service restaurants.
Moderate Resorts are ideal for travelers looking for a comfortable stay with added amenities, making them a popular choice for families or couples who want a touch of luxury without the premium price tag.
Deluxe Resorts
For those seeking a luxurious Disney experience, Deluxe Resorts provide upscale accommodations, a variety of dining options, and proximity to the parks. These resorts often feature spacious rooms, high-end amenities, and immersive themes that transport you into another world. Deluxe Resorts are located closer to the parks, with many within walking distance or accessible by Disney’s Monorail or water taxis.
Popular Deluxe Resorts:
Disney’s Contemporary Resort – An iconic modern hotel, known for the Monorail passing through its main building and its proximity to Magic Kingdom.
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort – Inspired by the South Pacific islands, with tiki-themed rooms, beachside views, and a Monorail connection.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge – Offering savanna views where guests can see animals like giraffes and zebras roaming outside their rooms.
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa – Disney’s flagship resort, offering Victorian elegance, upscale dining, and a prime location on the Monorail.
Perks of Deluxe Resorts:
Proximity to the parks, especially Magic Kingdom and EPCOT.
Exclusive amenities such as spas, fine dining, and concierge services.
Club Level options, which include private lounges, extra services, and additional perks.
Deluxe Resorts are perfect for travelers looking to immerse themselves fully in the Disney experience, with convenience and luxury at their fingertips. Families, couples, and groups celebrating special occasions often choose Deluxe Resorts to make their stay extra memorable.
Value vs. Deluxe Experiences: Which is Right for You?
Choosing between Value and Deluxe resorts depends on your priorities for the trip. Here are some factors to consider:
Budget: Value Resorts are significantly less expensive, making them ideal for those planning to spend most of their time in the parks. Deluxe Resorts offer luxury at a premium but include additional conveniences like proximity and superior dining.
Amenities: Value Resorts focus on basic needs and fun theming, while Deluxe Resorts feature luxurious pools, high-end restaurants, spa services, and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Location: Deluxe Resorts are located closest to the parks, particularly Magic Kingdom and EPCOT, reducing transportation time. Value Resorts are further from the parks but still accessible through Disney’s transportation system.
Experience: Families with young children or those seeking budget-friendly accommodations will find plenty to enjoy at Value Resorts. Travelers wanting a more relaxed, resort-centric experience may prefer Deluxe options.
Add a touch of magic to your Disney trip with these charming BaubleBar earrings, inspired by your favorite characters.
Nearby Off-Property Hotels
If staying at a Disney resort isn’t a priority, there are many nearby off-property hotels that offer easy access to the parks, often at a lower price. Some off-property hotels provide shuttle services, and many are located within a 10–15 minute drive of Disney World.
Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels – Officially recognized by Disney, these hotels offer a balance of proximity and price, with perks like access to Disney’s Extra Magic Hours and shuttles to the parks.
Hilton Orlando Buena Vista Palace – Located near Disney Springs with shuttles to the parks and amenities like pools and dining options.
B Resort & Spa – A boutique hotel that provides family suites, an outdoor pool, and a fun, modern vibe.
Bonnet Creek Hotels – Located within the gates of Disney World, Bonnet Creek hotels are off-property but close to the parks.
Waldorf Astoria Orlando – A luxury hotel with upscale dining, a full-service spa, and exclusive golf course access.
Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek – A family-friendly hotel with pools, a lazy river, and a range of dining options.
Budget-Friendly Options Nearby
If you’re looking to save even more, there are budget-friendly hotels near Disney’s entrance on International Drive and in the Lake Buena Vista area. These hotels typically offer free parking, breakfast options, and affordable rates.
Holiday Inn Orlando – Disney Springs Area – Offers spacious rooms, a pool, and easy access to Disney Springs.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Orlando Lake Buena Vista – Budget-friendly with free breakfast, shuttle service, and close proximity to Disney.
Tips for Choosing Off-Property Hotels
Consider Location and Transportation: If staying off-property, choose a hotel with a reliable shuttle service to Disney or easy access to the park entrances.
Check for Disney Perks: Some hotels, like the Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels, offer Disney benefits like Extra Magic Hours and early park access.
Look for Packages and Discounts: Many off-property hotels offer packages that include park tickets or dining discounts, so explore these options to maximize savings.
Final Thoughts
Where you stay at Walt Disney World can shape the experience of your vacation. Whether you choose a Disney Resort hotel for immersion in the magic or a nearby off-property hotel for affordability, there’s a place to fit every traveler’s needs and budget. This guide gives you a strong foundation for finding the right accommodations to create a memorable Disney vacation that matches your style and preferences.