Disney World Hotel Reviews
Our Disney World hotel reviews are based on firsthand experiences and multiple stays at every resort from value to deluxe. We know that choosing a hotel for your Disney World vacation is one of the most difficult decisions. The options seem endless, and with so many “reviews” out there, a little research might soon make you feel like you’re looping a track that leads to nowhere.
For example, you might read a few opinions on social media, online review sites, or even get advice from family and friends. Perhaps you’re interested in staying at Disney’s Boardwalk, but your budget is leaning more toward a moderate resort, such as Caribbean Beach Resort or Coronado Springs Resort. Before you know it, you’ve read so many hot takes that you’re even more confused than when you started. Ugh. The frustration is real, and worry sets in as you find yourself stuck in a state of indecisiveness. No one wants to make the wrong decision.
While unique perspectives can be valuable, they aren’t always objective. You know that saying To each their own? It’s true, especially when you’re planning a Disney vacation. You want to choose the right hotel. No, I take that back. You want to choose the hotel that’s right for you.
That’s where we can help. We have stayed in every hotel at Walt Disney World and many in the surrounding area. We also continue to stay at the hotels regularly for updates. Our experiences allow us to see how consistent the resort is and provide you with an idea of what to expect. For readers who are considering alternatives, we also maintain a separate guide to off-site hotels near Disney World. Most of all, we understand that everyone likes (and dislikes) different things. We strive to take a step back and provide an objective perspective that will help our readers discern which resort is best for them.
Below, you’ll find our reviews for every resort at Disney World. Once you narrow down the options, we recommend reading our entire review for those specific resorts. Then, if you really want to take a deep dive into the resort of your choice, we have numerous resources, including dining options, transportation, pools, room tours, and insider details we’ve learned from our travels.
Our Disney World Hotel Reviews
Whether you’re planning your first trip or comparing hotels for your next stay, the following hotel reviews highlight key pros and cons, what to expect, and who we think each resort suits best. As far as transparency, we like to let our readers know that we’ve paid out-of-pocket for all of our hotel stays. It’s also important to note that the hotels below are listed by resort category. If you’re looking for rankings, we have a separate guide where we rank the hotels in order from best to worst, with considerations for every budget.
Deluxe Resorts
We’ll start with the deluxe resorts at Disney World. This is the largest category of resorts and includes Disney’s finest hotels. Most of these resorts will offer multiple transportation options, and some will be within walking distance of a theme park. If you’re looking for a resort with all the bells and whistles, you’re in the right place.
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa is considered Disney’s flagship resort. This white-siding, red-roofed resort has a Victorian look that some might consider formal. It has meticulously landscaped grounds and is laid out in large buildings with interior room access. While the Grand Floridian has many positives, its biggest appeal is that it sits across Seven Seas Lagoon from Magic Kingdom. You can walk, monorail, or boat to the theme park. For those unfamiliar, being able to walk to and from a theme park is a luxury.
While pricing runs high at all the deluxe resorts, the Grand Floridian is the most expensive. That said, it’s hard to deny that staying here is probably more pleasant than we would like to admit. So, if you desire to spend some time here but don’t want to swing the bill for an entire week, you might consider a split stay. That’s when you divide your time between two resorts.
We don’t have anything bad to say about the Grand Floridian other than some will not care for the resort’s feeling of formality. It’s not casual, beachy, or tropical. The resort leans more toward pristine and traditional. The price point will also be a negative for some. If you’re looking to splurge, you’ll have more amenities at the nearby Four Seasons, with one exception–the proximity to the Magic Kingdom. That perk is pretty tough to beat.
Resort Review Summary
- Resort Type: Deluxe Resort
- Rooms: Mary Poppins and Princess Theming
- Closest Park: Within Walking Distance of Magic Kingdom
- Dining: Fine Dining, Table Service, Character Dining, Quick Service, Pool Bars, and Lounges
- Pools: Two Feature Pools, Water Slide, Aquatic Play Area
- Transportation: Monorail, Walking, Boats, Buses
- Our Experience: Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort Review
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Aloha! Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is an original, 1971 Disney World Resort. With its tropical, island theme, the resort is one of the most sought-after hotels at Walt Disney World. It sits along the shores of Seven Seas Lagoon between the Grand Floridian and the Transportation and Ticket Center, making it a monorail, boat, or walk away from the Most Magical Place on Earth.
As soon as you set foot on the resort’s grounds, you’ll feel as though you’ve landed in the Polynesian Islands. We’d say the resort’s theming is about as close as you can get to the real thing. What’s the catch? It’s expensive and crowded. If you’re a pool person and the weather is even remotely warm, the resort’s pools are almost always packed.
It’s also important to mention that the resort is comprised of exterior buildings with interior access. So, like the Grand Floridian, you’ll have to walk outside to and from your room to get anywhere. That said, this hotel is home to some of our favorite rooms! The resort’s standard rooms are themed to Moana.
Resort Review Summary
- Resort Type: Deluxe Resort
- Rooms: Moana-Themed
- Closest Park: Within Walking Distance of Magic Kingdom
- Dining: Table Service, Character Dining, Quick Service, Pool Bars, and Lounges
- Pools: Pools, Water Slide, Aquatic Play Area
- Transportation: Monorail, Walking, Boats, Buses
- Our Experience: Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort Review
- Additional Review: Kamehameha Club Level Review at the Polynesian
Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Disney’s Contemporary Resort is another original, 1971 resort that sits next door to Magic Kingdom. Most people are familiar with the Contemporary because the monorail travels through it. Of course, the resort’s most significant amenity is being within walking distance of the Magic Kingdom. It’s less than a 10-minute walk from the lobby to the park’s entrance.
But a word of warning. For some, the Contemporary feels cold, hard, and dated. We have found that guests either love it or hate it. I adore it and find myself continually blown away by the serenity of the resort’s massive backyard that sits on Bay Lake. It feels like you’re right in the middle of the magic when you stay here, but you can immediately escape by stepping out back. It’s a very surreal difference.
If you decide to stay here, you’ll have to make a couple of decisions. Do you want to stay in the Garden Wing or the Tower? Then, do you want a theme park or a lake view? We love both the Garden Wing and the Incredibles Rooms at Disney’s Contemporary.
Resort Review Summary
- Resort Type: Deluxe Resort
- Rooms: Incredibles-Themed
- Closest Park: Within Walking Distance of Magic Kingdom
- Dining: Signature, Table Service, Character Dining, Quick Service, Pool Bars, and Lounges
- Pools: Pools, Water Slide, Splash Pad Area
- Transportation: Monorail, Walking, Buses, Boats (Limited Resort Boat Service)
- Our Experience: Disney’s Contemporary Resort Review
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
If you’ve been dreaming of the great outdoors or find yourself at home in the woods, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is worthy of your consideration. This hotel reflects the look and feel of the great Pacific Northwest. When you set foot on the resort’s grounds, you’ll feel like you’ve left Florida for a woodsy retreat. We’ve stayed at the Wilderness Lodge many times and are always amazed at the tranquility.
While it isn’t my favorite, I still look forward to every visit. We also frequent the resort as day guests for dining. This is one of the best resorts for dining options. You’ll have an admirable selection of quick service items, and the lounges have fantastic menus.
It is rare to hear complaints about this resort. However, it’s worth noting that the Wilderness Lodge is a massive resort. So if you get placed at the end of a long hall, you might feel like it takes forever to get anywhere. Unfortunately, this resort isn’t within walking distance of a theme park. Guests are privy to taking a bus or a boat to the Magic Kingdom. The boat is a nice extra. It’s a peaceful ride.
Resort Review Summary
- Resort Type: Deluxe Resort
- Rooms: Bambi, Chip and Dale, Forest Friends
- Closest Park: A Boat or Bus Ride from Magic Kingdom
- Dining: Table Service, Character Dining, Quick Service, Pool Bars, and Lounges
- Pools: Two Pools, Water Slide, Aquatic Play Area
- Transportation: Buses, Boats
- Our Experience: Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Review
Disney’s Beach Club Resort
Disney’s Beach Club Resort is part of the Epcot Resorts Area. Staying here means quick access to two parks. It’s a five-minute walk to Epcot and a fifteen-minute walk to Hollywood Studios. An additional boat service is also available if you prefer not to walk.
As far as the resort goes, you can expect seaside theming, soft blues, and an overall relaxed feel. Those who plan to enjoy time at the pool will love Stormalong Bay. It’s one of our favorite places in all of Walt Disney World!
Our only real complaint is that the quick-service dining options (for the entire resort area) are not that great. It can be difficult to find freshly prepared and kid-friendly quick-service items, especially after you come back from the parks late at night. You’ll want to, at the very least, leave snacks in the room for those late nights out.
That said, Disney’s Beach Club is our favorite resort. Between the recreation, amenities, and location, it’s pretty hard to beat.
Resort Review Summary
- Resort Type: Deluxe Resort
- Rooms: Classic Characters, Beach Theming
- Closest Parks: Within Walking Distance of Epcot and Hollywood Studios
- Dining: Table Service, Character Dining, Quick Service, Pool Bar, and Lounge
- Pools: Multiple Pools, Water Slide, Kiddie Pool with Slide
- Transportation: Boats, Buses, Walking Paths, and Within Walking Distance of the Skyliner
- Our Experience: Disney’s Beach Club Review
Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
If we’re not staying at the Beach Club, we’re probably next door. The Yacht Club is the more formal side of the two resorts. You can expect masculine undertones and nautical theming, including boats, compasses, and complicated knots like you learned to tie in Cub Scouts.
Like its sister resort, our only complaint is that the counter-service dining options are subpar. But the lounges between the resorts are the real hidden gems. Don’t sleep on dining at Crew’s Cup. This is Disney, so the lounges are family-friendly.
Resort Review Summary
- Resort Type: Deluxe Resort
- Rooms: Nautical Theming
- Closest Park: Within Walking Distance of Epcot and Hollywood Studios
- Dining: Signature Dining, Table Service, Quick Service, Pool Bar, and Lounges
- Pools: Multiple Pools, Water Slide, Kiddie Pool with Slide
- Transportation: Boats, Buses, Walking Paths, Within Walking Distance of the Skyliner
- Our Experience: Disney’s Yacht Club Review
Disney’s BoardWalk Resort
Disney’s BoardWalk Resort sits on Crescent Lake and is a destination within itself. Many guests visit the Boardwalk for dining and leisure during their stay. It’s a beautiful resort designed to represent turn-of-the-century boardwalks on the New England seaside.
Boardwalk Inn offers a variety of activities that you won’t find at other Disney Resorts. Additionally, the resort is within walking distance of Epcot and Hollywood Studios. While this hotel is expensive, pricing is comparable to that of the other Epcot Resorts. If you’re considering a club-level stay, the Innkeeper’s Club at Boardwalk Inn gets excellent feedback.
As far as complaints, you may still struggle with quick-service dining options at this resort. But this resort’s feature pool is not nearly as overwhelming as Stormalong Bay. That’s not a complaint about the latter. We consider Disney’s Boardwalk one of the most kid-friendly resorts at Disney World.
Resort Review Summary
- Resort Type: Deluxe Resort
- Rooms:Â Pastels with a Subtle Hint of Classic Characters
- Closest Park: Within Walking Distance of Epcot and Hollywood Studios
- Dining: Signature Dining, Table Service, Quick Service, Pool Bars, and Lounges
- Pools: Pools, Water Slide, Kiddie Pool, and Playground
- Transportation: Boats, Buses, Walking Paths, Within Walking Distance of the Skyliner
- Our Experience: Disney’s Boardwalk Resort Review
Disney’s Swan and Dolphin Resort
It’s probably apparent that we have no significant problems with any of the deluxe resorts—Disney’s Swan and Dolphin are no exception. First, however, you will want to know that these hotels are owned and operated by Marriott. That said, the Swan, Dolphin, and Swan Reserve are part of the Epcot Resorts Area. They are within boat or walking distance of Epcot and Hollywood Studios. (Note: you’ll have to use the Swan and Dolphin’s private shuttle when traveling to Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom.)
Pricing is often more reasonable here than at the neighboring Walt Disney World Resorts. However, where applicable, you’ll want to consider extras like resort fees and parking charges.
Resort Review Summary
- Resort Type: Deluxe Resort
- Rooms: Modern and Most Have Been Recently Updated
- Closest Park: Within Walking Distance of Epcot and Hollywood Studios
- Dining: Signature Dining, Table Service, Quick Service, Pool Bars, and Lounges
- Pools: Multiple Pools, Water Slide, Kiddie Pool, Playground
- Transportation: Boats, Hotel Shuttle, Walking Paths, and Within Walking Distance of the Skyliner
- Our Experience: Disney’s Swan and Dolphin Review
- Additional Review: Walt Disney World Swan Reserve Review
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is the quintessential Disney World Resort choice for anyone with a love for animals or a passion for Africa. Between the resort’s theming and the African animals grazing on the surrounding savannas, we often recommend it over any other resort.
Typically, the Animal Kingdom Lodge offers more reasonable rates than the other deluxe resorts at Disney. That’s likely due to its location being further away from the rest of the property. But don’t let that stop you from planning a stay here. The resort’s peace and tranquility are the perfect remedy after a long day in crowded theme parks.
We also consider this resort one of the best splurges for those traveling with children. Seeing animals from your balcony when you wake up each morning is a surreal experience. Additionally, the resort has one of the best pools and aquatic play areas for children at Kidani Village. So, if you’re staying at the main lodge, it’s worth the walk down to the village if you have children who might enjoy the water play area.
Resort Review Summary
- Resort Type: Deluxe Resort
- Rooms: Neutral with Wood Undertones and Minimal Theming
- Closest Park: Short Bus Ride to Disney’s Animal Kingdom
- Dining: Signature Dining, Table Service, Buffet, Quick Service, Pool Bars, and Lounges
- Pools: Two Pools, Water Slides, Aquatic Play Area at Kidani Village, Playground at Jambo House
- Transportation: Buses Only
- Our Experience: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Review
Deluxe Villa Resorts
Deluxe Villa Resorts are also known as Disney Vacation Club Resorts (DVC). However, guests do not have to be DVC members to rent rooms. Instead, Disney makes these resort rooms available to all guests. These resorts are either separate sections of a larger deluxe resort or separate stand-alone resorts. Units at these resorts will have a variety of upgrades ranging from kitchenettes to full-size kitchens, laundry rooms, and more.
Disney’s Riviera Resort
Disney’s Riviera Resort is a dedicated Disney Vacation Club Resort with a stop on the Skyliner. This resort falls into the deluxe villa category and offers high-end finishes like bow tie marble and oversized guest baths in even the smallest accommodations. It’s a nice one.
However, what we love most about the Riviera is its boutique layout and incredible dining options. We dine at this resort more than any other. From quick service to rooftop dining, you can’t go wrong here. The only negative factor–it costs a pretty penny to stay here. This high-end resort is at the top of the most expensive hotel list, similar to the Grand Floridian.
Resort Review Summary
- Resort Type: Deluxe Villa Resort
- Rooms: French Theming, Marble, Modern Elegance
- Closest Park: Skyliner Ride Away from Epcot and Hollywood Studios
- Dining: Signature Dining, Character Dining, Quick Service, Pool Bar/Lounge, and Cafe
- Pools: Two Pools, Water Slide, Aquatic Play Area
- Transportation: Buses, Disney Skyliner, Walking Path to Caribbean Beach Resort
- Our Experience: Disney’s Riviera Resort Review
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa is a dedicated Disney Vacation Club Resort. This resort is inspired by New York’s Saratoga Springs during the 1800s. Expect to find a comfortable retreat with a welcoming feel like you’ve come in from a day at the horse races.
Saratoga Springs is gorgeous but also massive, which might make it challenging for some to get around. Its layout is similar to one of the larger moderate resorts. However, many recreational activities are available at the resort. Regarding location, the resort sits across the lake from Disney Springs. You can walk or take a boat over to the venue.
For you, this means you can take advantage of the restaurants at Disney Springs and shops if you like. Then, back at the resort, you might enjoy playing a round of golf or lounging at one of the many pools.
Resort Review Summary
- Resort Type: Deluxe Villa Resort
- Rooms: Minimal Disney Horse Theming, Neutral Colors
- Closest Destination: Within Walking Distance of Disney Springs
- Dining: Table Service, Quick Service, Pool Bars, and Lounges
- Pools: Multiple Pools, Water Slides, Aquatic Play Area, Splash Pad, Playground
- Transportation: Buses, Walking Path to Disney Springs
- Our Experience: Disney’s Saratoga Springs Review
Disney’s Old Key West Resort
Disney’s Old Key West is a beautiful Disney Vacation Club Resort inspired by the Florida Keys. Expect an island vibe with a friendly feel. We love dining at Olivia’s Cafe, the resort’s casual table-service restaurant. After a hearty breakfast, you can head to the parks or spend the day taking a bicycle tour. We’ve done both!
On the positive side, Old Key West’s rates are reasonable, considering the room upgrades. However, similar to Saratoga Springs, Old Key West is a vast resort that requires a lot of extra walking or a good know-how of how to use the bus stops to get around the resort. You will also need to know that multiple bus stops mean longer travel time to and from the parks, which is common at several resorts.
As much as I love the pretty look and vibe of Old Key West, there is one other factor that some might consider a deal-breaker. The majority of the buildings do not have elevators. While we enjoyed our last stay, dragging our luggage up a flight or two of stairs was a headache. So it’s something you might want to consider.
Resort Review Summary
- Resort Type: Deluxe Villa Resort
- Rooms: Subtle Classic Characters, Beach-y
- Closest Destination: Short Boat Ride Away from Disney Springs
- Dining: Table Service, Quick Service, Pool Bar, and Lounge
- Pools: Multiple Pools, Water Slide, Playground, Loads of Recreation
- Transportation: Boat to Disney Springs, Buses Elsewhere
- Our Experience: Disney’s Old Key West Review
Grand Floridian Villas
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa is home to the Villas of Grand Floridian. The resort has two buildings that house these particular room types. If you love the Grand Floridian but need a few of the comforts of home or have a larger party, the villas are worth your consideration.
Resort Review Summary
- Resort Type: Deluxe Villa Resort
- Rooms: Mary Poppins, Princess, Subtle Elegance
- Closest Park: Within Walking Distance of Magic Kingdom
- Dining: Fine Dining, Table Service, Character Dining, Quick Service, Pool Bars, and Lounges
- Pools: Two Feature Pools, Water Slide, Aquatic Play Area
- Transportation: Monorail, Walking, Boats, Buses
Polynesian Villas
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is home to the Polynesian Villas and Bungalows. This resort is comprised of an Island Tower (interior hotel), two-bedroom bungalows on the water, and deluxe studios in select buildings at the resort.
Resort Review Summary
- Resort Type: Deluxe Villa Resort
- Rooms: Lilo and Stitch theming, Tropical Modern with a Touch of Moana in the new Island Tower
- Closest Park: Within Walking Distance of Magic Kingdom
- Dining: Table Service, Character Dining, Quick Service, Pool Bars, and Lounges
- Pools: Pools, Water Slide, Aquatic Play Area
- Transportation: Monorail, Walking, Boats, Buses
Bay Lake Tower
Bay Lake Tower is a dedicated tower hotel adjacent to the Contemporary. While the tower is independent of the Contemporary Resort’s structure, a large bridge connects them on the fourth floor. The tower offers stunning views of Bay Lake and Magic Kingdom. Our last stay was in a theme park view room, which was fun, especially for the fireworks, but we can’t deny that the views of Bay Lake are our favorite.
Resort Review Summary
- Resort Type: Deluxe Villa Resort
- Rooms: Newly Updated
- Closest Park: Within Walking Distance of Magic Kingdom
- Dining: Signature, Table Service, Character Dining, Quick Service, Pool Bars, and Lounges
- Pools: Pools, Water Slide, Splash Pad Area
- Transportation: Monorail, Walking, Buses, Boats (Limited Resort Boat Service)
Copper Creek Villas
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is unique because it’s home to two Disney Vacation Clubs–Copper Creek Villas and Boulder Ridge Villas. Copper Creek Villas is the newer of the two villa resorts. This section of the resort offers deluxe studios conveniently located off the lobby of Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. It also offers full-size cabins along Bay Lake. Of course, a cabin rental at this resort is fairly exclusive and expensive.
Resort Review Summary
- Resort Type: Deluxe Villa Resort
- Rooms: National Parks, Subtle Disney References
- Closest Park: A Boat or Bus Ride from Magic Kingdom
- Dining: Table Service, Character Dining, Quick Service, Pool Bars, and Lounges
- Pools: Two Pools, Water Slide, Aquatic Play Area
- Transportation: Buses, Boats
Boulder Ridge Villas
Boulder Ridge Villas is the original Disney Vacation Club at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. It’s a short walk down a covered walkway from the resort’s main lobby.
Resort Review Summary
- Resort Type: Deluxe Villa Resort
- Rooms: Chip and Dale, Disney Nature, Newly Updated
- Closest Park: A Boat or Bus Ride from Magic Kingdom
- Dining: Table Service, Character Dining, Quick Service, Pool Bars, and Lounges
- Pools: Two Pools, Water Slide, Aquatic Play Area
- Transportation: Buses, Boats
Beach Club Villas
Disney’s Beach Club Resort is home to the Beach Club Villas. This section of the resort is located between the main building and the parking lot, which makes it reasonably private. Beach Club Villas are somewhat distinguishable because their exterior is a pretty mint green compared to the rest of the Beach Club’s soft blue paint color. In addition, a statue of Ariel, The Little Mermaid, sits outside the main entrance.
Resort Review Summary
- Resort Type: Deluxe Villa Resort
- Rooms: Classic Characters, Beach Theming
- Closest Parks: Within Walking Distance of Epcot and Hollywood Studios
- Dining: Table Service, Character Dining, Quick Service, Pool Bar, and Lounge
- Pools: Multiple Pools, Water Slide, Kiddie Pool with Slide
- Transportation: Boats, Buses, Walking Paths, Within Walking Distance of the Skyliner
Boardwalk Villas
Like many other villa resorts, Boardwalk Villas is an extension of Disney’s Boardwalk Inn. This villa’s wing has a private pool at the Community Hall in addition to the feature pool. Of course, most will want to spend time at the Luna Park Pool with its fun waterslide that mimics a wooden roller coaster! We love this resort and always enjoy our time there!
Resort Review Summary
- Resort Type: Deluxe Villa Resort
- Rooms: Classic Characters, Subtle Pastels, and Neutrals
- Closest Park: Within Walking Distance of Epcot and Hollywood Studios
- Dining: Signature Dining, Table Service, Quick Service, Pool Bars, and Lounges
- Pools: Pools, Water Slide, Kiddie Pool, and Playground
- Transportation: Boats, Buses, Walking Paths, Within Walking Distance of the Skyliner
- Our Experience: Disney’s Boardwalk Villas Review
Kidani Village
Kidani Village is a separate resort adjacent to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. Compared to the main lodge, Kidani has a smaller lobby and only a few dining options. However, guests can walk or take a shuttle up to Jambo House. Kidani Village also has an excellent pool area with a tremendous water play area for children. It’s the perfect place to relax in the shade and spend an entire resort day!
Did we mention animals? Like Jambo House, some rooms at Kidani Village face savannas. The resort also has multiple public viewing areas where you can see animals roaming.
Resort Review Summary
- Resort Type: Deluxe Villa Resort
- Rooms: Neutral with Wood Tones
- Closest Park: Short Bus Ride to Disney’s Animal Kingdom
- Dining: Table Service, Quick Service, Pool Bars, and Lounges
- Pools: Two Pools, Water Slide, Aquatic Play Area
- Transportation: Buses Only
- Our Experience: Disney’s Kidani Village Review
Moderate Resorts
Now that we’ve reviewed the deluxe and deluxe villa resorts, let’s examine an entirely different class: Disney’s Moderate Resorts. Moderate resorts fall between the value and deluxe categories.
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is a beautiful, moderate resort hotel option. It offers a Southwestern flair with desert-like landscapes. A beautiful lake centers the property. When staying at Coronado Springs, two options are available. First, you can stay in the traditional portion of the resort. Each of these villages surrounds the lake with its pros and cons.
Or you can stay in Gran Destino Tower, an exception for the moderates. This tower hotel offers interior room access, so it leans a little more deluxe than moderate. Naturally, Gran Destino’s main tower rooms are higher than rooms in the village. However, they won’t be as expensive as a deluxe resort. We have a separate review of staying at Gran Destino Tower if you want to learn more.
Resort Review Summary
- Resort Type: Moderate Resort
- Rooms: Neutral with Disney Theming and Fun Pops of Orange
- Closest Park: Within Walking Distance to Magic Kingdom
- Dining: Table Service, Quick Service, Pool Bars, and Lounges
- Pools: Multiple Pools, Water Slide, Kiddie Pool
- Transportation: Buses Only
- Our Experience: Disney’s Coronado Springs Review
- Additional Review: Gran Destino Tower Review
- Club Level Review: Chronos Club Level Review
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
As you can probably imagine, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort has island themes. Each village is named after an island. The resort is centered around a lake with beautiful grounds. While the resort is somewhat lacking in dining options, you can take advantage of the nearby Disney’s Riviera Resort, which is within walking distance.
The most considerable appeal of staying at Caribbean Beach is that it’s on the Disney Skyliner. It’s the only moderate resort that provides access to the gondola transportation service. The Skyliner travels to Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Epcot
You’ll want to know that the resort is vast, so it could require a lot of extra walking. Also, this resort does not have elevators, so if you get a second-floor room assignment, you’ll have to deal with the stairs.
Resort Review Summary
- Resort Type: Moderate Resort
- Rooms: Neutral Semi-Tropical or Under the Sea Theming (Varies), 5th Sleeper Option
- Closest Park: Skyliner Ride Away from Hollywood Studios and Epcot
- Dining: Table Service, Quick Service, Pool Bars, and Lounges
- Pools: Multiple Pools, Water Slide, Aquatic Play Area
- Transportation: Skyliner, Buses, Walking Path to Disney’s Riviera Resort
- Our Experience: Disney’s Caribbean Beach Review
Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Resort
There’s no denying that Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside is as beautiful as the other moderate resorts at Walt Disney World. But remember, when picking one of these hotels, it is best to choose the one that appeals most to you. At Port Orleans Resort Riverside, you can expect the charm of the South with a bayou influence. Also, expect impeccable landscaping in the mansion section of the resort. Everything here is crisp and clean, with bright green grass accenting the stark white mansions.
Or, if you choose to stay in Alligator Bayou, get ready to fall in love with the woodsy-swamp setting. From the romantic Spanish moss swaying from the trees to the water features and woods, this resort is stunning. The only downside is that the resort is massive. If your room borders the outskirts of the resort, expect a decent amount of extra walking. However, the regulars will tell you that it’s a pleasant place to walk.
Resort Review Summary
- Resort Type: Moderate Resort
- Rooms: Standard and 5th Sleeper Option
- Closest To: Boat Ride to Disney Springs
- Dining: Table Service, Quick Service, Pool Bars, and Lounges
- Pools: Multiple Pools, Water Slide, Kiddie Pool
- Transportation: Buses, Boat Ride to Disney Springs Only
- Our Experience: Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Review
Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter Resort
If you prefer to stay “in town,” you will probably love Riverside’s sister resort, Port Orleans French Quarter, which is within walking distance of Riverside. However, it’s much smaller than other resorts. Its boutique layout makes it easy to get around.
We love to stay at Port Orleans French Quarter and prefer it over Riverside because of its fun pops of color and Mardi Gras theming. On the downside, this resort only has one feature pool and no leisure pool. However, the pool is the cutest. Its water slide is designed to look like a sea serpent’s pink tongue! The serpent’s long tail also shoots across the pool, forming bridges in some areas.
Port Orleans French Quarter is also where you can pick up Mickey-shaped beignets. You can order them for breakfast each morning if you like!
Resort Review Summary
- Resort Type: Moderate Resort
- Rooms:Â Modern and updated, sleep up to 4 guests
- Closest To: Boat Ride to Disney Springs
- Dining: Table Service, Quick Service, Pool Bars, and Lounges
- Pools: One Pool, Water Slide, Aquatic Play Area
- Transportation: Buses, Boat Ride to Disney Springs Only
- Our Experience: Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter Review
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort is unique because it’s a campground with a variety of campsites and cabins. You can reserve a campsite for an RV or pitch a tent in some areas.
Additionally, cabins are available for rent at Disney’s Fort Wilderness. They offer more space for the family to spread out than regular hotel rooms. If you plan a stay at this resort, you’ll have the luxury of taking the boat to Magic Kingdom. First, however, you’ll want to know that the resort is enormous. It’s so huge that many guests bring or rent golf carts to travel to and from the bus stops and boat docks. An internal bus service is also available.
Resort Review Summary
- Resort Type: Moderate (Campgrounds) and Deluxe Villa (Cabins)
- Rooms: Camping or Cabin Rentals
- Closest Park: Boat or Bus Ride to Magic Kingdom
- Dining: Table Service, Quick Service, Pool Bars, and Lounges
- Pools: Two Pools, Water Slide, Aquatic Play Area
- Transportation: Boat to Magic Kingdom and Select Resorts (Limited), Buses
Value Resorts
Lastly, as far as on-property resorts go, we have the value resorts at Walt Disney World. These resorts are the most budget-friendly (cheapest) and where you’ll find true Disney theming.
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Disney’s Art of Animation is considered the nicest of the value resorts. However, it doesn’t quite fit the mold of a true value. Three of its four sections are family suites. Family suites offer larger accommodations and are comparable in price to a deluxe resort. However, they can accommodate more guests and provide plenty of space for everyone to spread out.
If you want to stay in a value category at the resort, your only options are The Little Mermaid rooms. These are standard resort rooms at value resort prices. Family suites are located in the Cars, The Lion King, and Finding Nemo sections of the resort.
This is a fun hotel if you have small children who love any of the animated films highlighted at the resort. So, if you’re staying at The Little Mermaid section, you can still hang out at the feature pool, The Big Blue Pool, or the Cozy Cone Pool down on the Cars end.
Resort Review Summary
- Resort Type: Value Resort
- Rooms: Little Mermaid Theme (Value Only) or Family Suites
- Closest Park: Skyliner Ride to Hollywood Studios or Epcot
- Dining: Quick Service Food Court, Pool Bar
- Pools: Multiple Pools, Splash Pad, Playground
- Transportation: Skyliner, Buses
- Our Experience: Disney’s Art of Animation Review
Disney’s Pop Century Resort
Pop Century Resort sits directly across Hourglass Lake from Disney’s Art of Animation. This resort is themed to represent the decades between the 50s and 90s. It features large bursts of primary colors and oversized representations of everything “pop” from each decade.
Room rates at Pop Century typically run higher than those at the All-Star Resorts because of access to the Skyliner. However, we love the layout of the rooms and find that even though they are compact, they offer plenty of storage solutions.
As far as negatives go, this resort can be crowded. However, depending on your room location, it might also be a decent walk from the bus stop. That said, it’s fun to have the neighboring Art of Animation nearby, and we love to take leisurely walks around Hourglass Lake. In most instances, we prefer to stay at Pop Century because we like the standard rooms better than the ones at Art of Animation.
Resort Review Summary
- Resort Type: Value Resort
- Rooms: Standard Rooms
- Closest Park: Skyliner to Hollywood Studios and Epcot
- Dining: Quick Service Food Court, Pool Bar
- Pools: Multiple Pools, Kiddie Pool, Playground
- Transportation: Skyliner, Buses
- Our Experience: Disney’s Pop Century Review
Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort
Disney’s All-Star Movies is one of three All-Star Resorts. These resorts are located closest to Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Naturally, a Disney movie-themed resort features fun references to popular animated films. You might stay in the Toy Story section or run into the 101 Dalmatians.
Rooms at the All-Star Movies are among the lowest priced on the Disney property. However, the trade-off is smaller rooms and fewer resort amenities. On the positive side, you’ll feel like you’re staying at a Disney Resort with the movie theming. Children love seeing their favorite characters represented around the resort.
Resort Review Summary
- Resort Type: Value Resort
- Rooms: Classic Characters, Well-Utilized Spaces
- Closest Park: Animal Kingdom
- Dining: Quick Service Food Court, Pool Bar
- Pools: Two Pools, Splash Pad, Kiddie Pool
- Transportation: Buses Only
- Our Experience: Disney’s All-Star Movies Review
Disney’s All-Star Music Resort
Disney’s All-Star Music Resort is next door to Movies. For reference, all three “All-Star Resorts” at Disney World are adjacent. The only difference between them is the theming. They will all have comparable room rates. All-Star Music is themed to popular songs and classic Disney tunes. Music is my favorite of the three All-Star Resorts because I love music. They even play some groovy tunes on the theme park buses!
Free Disney transportation options are limited to buses at the All-Star Resorts. Another con for these three resorts is that they are often booked by large school groups visiting Walt Disney World for various competitions and performances. So don’t be surprised if you wake up one morning and find yourself in the middle of a cheerleading or band convention when you head to the resort’s food court.
Resort Review Summary
- Resort Type: Value Resort
- Rooms: Classic Characters, Well-Utilized Spaces
- Closest Park: Animal Kingdom
- Dining: Quick Service Food Court, Pool Bar
- Pools: Two Pools, Splash Pad, Kiddie Pool
- Transportation: Buses Only
- Our Experience: Disney’s All-Star Music Review
Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort
Disney’s All-Star Sports is the third and final of the three All-Star Resorts. Like the name, sports is the theme here. So, for those who love all things sports-related, you’ll adore seeing classic characters playing their favorite sports across the resort.
Sports is the most popular resort for school trips, so it might be crowded if your vacation runs concurrently with a sporting event. Additionally, dining is limited to one large food court and a pool bar at each of the All-Star Resorts.
Resort Review Summary
- Resort Type: Value Resort
- Rooms: Classic Characters, Well-Utilized Spaces
- Closest Park: Animal Kingdom
- Dining: Quick Service Food Court, Pool Bar
- Pools: Two Pools, Splash Pad, Kiddie Pool
- Transportation: Buses Only
- Our Experience: Disney’s All-Star Sports Review
Final Thoughts on our Disney World Hotel Reviews
Whether you’re choosing accommodations for your first Disney hotel stay or looking to try something new, we hope these reviews provided the insight needed to make the best decision. Make sure to check back with Resorts Gal for more of our resort coverage!
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In the Comments
What do you think of these Disney World Hotel Reviews? Did we miss anything considerable? Are you still having a difficult time choosing a resort? Let us know your thoughts and opinions in the comments below.
