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Ranked: The Best Onsite Walt Disney World Resorts for Every Budget

Ranked: The Best Onsite Walt Disney World Resorts for Every Budget

Heading to Disney World? You’ll need a place to stay. And, if you’re like us, you’ll want to pick the best Disney World hotel for your vacation.

We can help.

We’ve ranked all the Walt Disney World resort hotels and broken down the pros and cons of each so you can find the perfect fit for your next Disney vacation.

Ready to find out more? Let’s go!

What to expect in this ranking

Over the past several years, we’ve made it our mission to collect as much information as we can about all of your different onsite Walt Disney World resort hotel options.

We’ve not only stayed in all the resorts (most multiple times), but we’ve also spent a lot of time putting together videos and beefing up all of our resort-specific pages with our personal pics and in-depth reviews.

This is the first part of our Disney World Resort Guide. This is where we rank the resorts and give you our top picks and the pros and cons of each. But, once you have narrowed down your choices, you’ll find links to more info that will go even deeper on each resort.

We’re talking everything from the building locations to complete dining info to resort pools and other amenities. All that is covered on our resort specific deep dives linked below.

So, start here, but don’t forget to click through to check out our additional resources, too!

Every Walt Disney World Resort Ranked

Disney groups its resorts into 4 different categories: Value, Moderate, Deluxe, Deluxe Villa. They also have campgrounds and cabins, but for the sake of keeping things simple, we’re going to put those in the Value and Deluxe Villas categories, respectively, for our rankings.

We’ll go into more detail about what each of those categories means below, but for now, all you need to know is that the prices and amenities vary and go from the cheapest with the fewest extras in the Values all the way up to pricey luxury stays at the Deluxe and Deluxe Villa resorts.

Ranking resorts across different categories definitely isn’t easy, and we know our list is likely to get people fired up. But we like to live on the edge, so we’re gonna give it a try.

However, we’re also going to rank the resorts by category (Value, Moderate, Deluxe, & Deluxe Villa), which we might argue is a more fair way to do it.

And, keep in mind, Disney doesn’t really have a “bad” resort. We are strong believers that any of the onsite resorts at Walt Disney World are a great base for a wonderful vacation and as demonstrated by our list below, there are several of the less expensive resorts we actually prefer over the most expensive ones.

Important Reminder: Rankings are subjective, and it is perfectly fine if you don’t agree with us! BUT, to help you understand why we have come to the conclusion that we have, we did include complete reviews down below.

Now that you see how all the resorts across *all* categories stack up, let’s dive into each of the different price points to go into a bit more detail about why we think they rank the way they do.

Disney World Value Resorts Ranked

Disney World Value Resorts are your least expensive option, and that is reflected in them also having the least number of amenities and the smallest rooms, which average around 260 square feet aside from Art of Animation which has slightly more space:

But Value Resorts are also some of the most fun and in-your-face Disney magic of the Walt Disney World resorts.

With over-the-top theming and giant icons that flank their grounds, plus family-friendly Quick Service dining options, this is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a budget-friendly on-site resort that will wow kids.

Pop Century

Pop Century Resort at Walt Disney World
  • Resort Category: Value
  • 2024 Rates (low to high): $183-$392 per night
  • Theme: Retro pop culture
  • Room Types Available: Standard and Preferred (all with either a Queen and Queen-size table bed or King size bed)
  • Maximum number of guests per room: 4 adults
  • Dining Options: Quick Service only
  • Transportation Options: Bus and Disney Skyliner
  • Proximity to Parks: Not within walking distance of any park

Pros: Affordable, fun theming especially for younger kids, access to the Disney Skyliner gondola system, dedicated buses (meaning the buses aren’t shared with other resorts), can walk to Art of Animation to take advantage of their fantastic food court

Cons: Spotty cell phone service and wifi connection, spread out, can be noisy

Disney’s Pop Century Resort is one of our most favorite places to stay, so much so that you’ll often find us choosing it over more expensive resorts. That’s why it ranks in the top spot for us in the Value resort category and near the top of our overall ranking list above.

Is Pop Century Resort as extravagant as Disney’s Grand Floridian or as lush as the Polynesian? Maybe not, BUT that doesn’t mean it doesn’t have a ton to offer guests.

For example, its transportation options. The buses and the Disney Skyliner make it super convenient for getting around the parks.

Of course, being a Disney Value Resort it’s also friendly on your wallet and even though the rooms might be on the small side, they’re designed efficiently to ensure you have everything you need after a long day exploring the parks.

No, the rooms aren’t anything fancy, but that’s always been okay with us. And while they are on the small side, Disney has truly maximized the space in the rooms by utilizing a Queen-sized bed that folds up and converts into a table when not in use. This increases your floor space during the day – something we appreciate and something that parents with little ones who need space to play also find beneficial. (Note: King rooms do not have the second Queen-size table beds.)

pop century resort - room

With that being said, despite being efficient, 4 full-size adults in here would be tight. But, it is also doable (we’ve done it multiple times). Just know that you’ll be a little squished.

Hopefully, though, you’ll be so tired after a busy day in the parks that you’ll hardly notice the lack of space. But if you have any hesitation on whether you want to try to fit 4 adults in a Pop Century room or not, we recommend opting for 2 rooms here instead.

It’s important to note that Pop Century is a very popular resort, which means there can be some noticeable noise, especially in busy areas like the pools.

If you’re a light sleeper, you might find the noise level slightly challenging. But truth be told, we’re usually so tired after a day in the parks, we don’t struggle to fall asleep too much – even on the occasions when we’ve had our room facing the noisy main pool.

It’s also a HUGE resort, and if you find yourselves assigned to one of the buildings on the edge of the property, you may curse your luck at the end of the day when you’re making the walk back to your room. For that reason, we highly recommend opting in for a Preferred Room here so that you are closer to the main building (including dining) and buses.

Art of Animation Resort

art of animation resort
  • Resort Category: Value
  • 2024 Rates (low to high): $209-$963 per night
  • Theme: Disney & Pixar animated favorites
  • Room Types Available: Standard (all with either 2 Queen beds or 1 King size bed) and Family Suites (all with 1 Queen Bed and 1 Double-Size Sleeper Sofa and 1 Double-Size Table Bed)
  • Maximum number of guests per room: 6 adults
  • Dining Options: Quick Service only
  • Transportation Options: Bus and Disney Skyliner
  • Proximity to Parks: Not within walking distance of any park

Pros: Some of the best theming in all of Disney World, dedicated buses (meaning they do not share with other resorts), most rooms are suites, bigger and better food court than other Values, dog-friendly, access to the Disney Skyliner gondola system, can walk to Pop Century

Cons: Spread out, spotty cell phone service and Wi-Fi, most expensive of the Value Resorts, Little Mermaid rooms are rarely part of promotions

Our second favorite Value resort has to be Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. This charming property boasts a delightful theme, a fantastic food court, and the added convenience of easy access to the Disney Skyliner.

Art of Animation Resort was Disney’s ingenious response to the demand for more spacious accommodations at a more affordable price point than the Deluxe Villa resorts. The result is a game-changing design that offers larger families and groups seeking extra space an alternative when selecting a resort.

cars family suite art of animation

The resort is just so darn cute. Every corner is bursting with over-the-top theming that appeals to kids and adults alike. Comprising four distinctly themed areas, the majority of the resort features what Disney calls “Family Suites”:

  • Cars (Family Suites)
  • Finding Nemo (Family Suites)
  • The Lion King (Family Suites)
  • The Little Mermaid (Standard Rooms)

Each Family Suite consists of one bedroom with a Queen-size bed, one fold-down Queen-size table bed, and one full-size couch. Additionally, there are two full bathrooms and a convenient kitchenette area.

lion king family suite living area art of animation

The Little Mermaid Standard rooms, while lacking the extra space of the Family Suites, still offer a well-themed and comfortable stay with two Queen-size beds in each. Plus, they have the largest square footage of any standard Disney Value Resort room.

From the meticulously designed bathrooms to the cozy bedrooms, Art of Animation is brimming with Disney details that quickly make the resort a favorite of its guests – us included!

But, one aspect that gives us pause is the cost. Despite being classified as a Value resort, the Family Suites can be relatively pricey.

And, while they do offer a more budget-friendly option compared to the Deluxe Villa resorts, it’s worth noting that each Family Suite has only one “real” bed, with the others being pullouts or fold-down options. Although we found the fold-down table beds to be surprisingly comfortable, the sofa bed could benefit from some improvements. We’d love to see Disney swap them out with the same style of sofa bed they used in recent refurbishments of the Polynesian Villas, for example.

queen bed cars suite art of animation

Another consideration is the location of The Little Mermaid rooms, which are quite a distance from the main building. Be prepared for a bit of a hike if you choose this option and unless you just really, really want to stay here for The Little Mermaid theming, you might be better served to stay in a Preferred Room over at Pop Century.

Despite these minor drawbacks, we still love Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. Its charming theming, family-friendly accommodations, and overall appeal make it a fantastic choice for families and groups looking to visit Walt Disney World without breaking the bank.

All-Star Music

all star music - bus stop
  • Resort Category: Value
  • 2024 Rates (low to high): $133-$696 per night
  • Theme: Disney-fied popular music genres
  • Room Types Available: Standard and Preferred (all with either a Queen and Queen-size table bed or King size bed) and Family Suites (1 Queen bed and 2 Queen-size pull down beds)
  • Maximum number of guests per room: 6 adults
  • Dining Options: Quick Service only
  • Transportation Options: Bus
  • Proximity to Parks: Not within walking distance of any park

Pros: Affordable, fun music theming especially suited for young kids, family suites available, rooms include pull-down table beds

Cons: Small rooms, spread out, buses are sometimes shared between All-Star resorts

Disney has an entire complex of Value Resorts known as “the All-Stars”. They are directly next to one another, but each one has a little bit different vibe.

These resorts are typically part of vacation packages for sporting events and cheer competitions, so it isn’t unusual to find large groups staying here, which is partially why they have a bit of a negative reputation.

Another downside to the All-Stars is that sometimes during slower times of the year (or even slower times of the day) they share buses. This isn’t all the time – so you may not even have it happen to you if you’re staying there, but it *does* happen, and it can really be a drag if you’re trying to get somewhere fast.

all-star music standard and preferred room bedroom

Like all the All-Star resorts, the food court here is perfectly adequate and typically also pretty busy. And while 4 adults can fit in the standard rooms, things will be tight, so keep that in mind.

Out of all the All-Star Resorts, All-Star Music is our favorite because it is the only other Value resort that offers the Family Suites. The family suites here are a bit different from the ones at Art of Animation, and the layout is a bit different too. They aren’t as cute or as well themed, but they are slightly less expensive and are still an excellent option for families looking for more space and 2 bathrooms.

All-Star Movies

all star movies bus stop
  • Resort Category: Value
  • 2024 Rates (low to high): $133-$342 per night
  • Theme: Disney movies
  • Room Types Available: Standard and Preferred (all with either a Queen and Queen-size table bed or King size bed)
  • Maximum number of guests per room: 4 adults
  • Dining Options: Quick Service only
  • Transportation Options: Bus
  • Proximity to Parks: Not within walking distance of any park

Pros: Affordable, fun movie theming especially suited for young kids, rooms include pull-down table beds

Cons: Small rooms, spread out, buses are sometimes shared between All-Star resorts (and All-Star Movies is often the last of the resorts to be picked up or dropped off)

Disney has an entire complex of Value Resorts known as “the All-Stars”. They are directly next to one another, but each one has a little bit different vibe.

These resorts are typically part of vacation packages for sporting events and cheer competitions, so it isn’t unusual to find large groups staying here, which is partially why they have a bit of a negative reputation.

101 dalmatians buillding - all star movies

Another downside to the All-Stars is that sometimes during slower times of the year (or even slower times of the day) they share buses. This isn’t all the time – so you may not even have it happen to you if you’re staying there, but it *does* happen, and it can really be a drag if you’re trying to get somewhere fast.

Like all the All-Star resorts, the food court here is perfectly adequate and typically also pretty busy. And while 4 adults can fit in the standard rooms, things will be tight, so keep that in mind.

All-Star Movies has tons of great movie icons stationed at the ends of the buildings. These make for great photo ops and kids really seem to love them!

All-Star Sports

all star sports - surfboard bay pool
  • Resort Category: Value
  • 2024 Rates (low to high): $133-$337 per night
  • Theme: Sports
  • Room Types Available: Standard and Preferred (all with either a Queen and Queen-size table bed or King size bed)
  • Maximum number of guests per room: 4 adults
  • Dining Options: Quick Service only
  • Transportation Options: Bus
  • Proximity to Parks: Not within walking distance of any park

Pros: Affordable, fun sports theming especially suited for young kids

Cons: Small rooms, spread out, buses sometimes shared between All-Star resorts

Disney has an entire complex of Value Resorts known as “the All-Stars”. They are directly next to one another, but each one has a little bit different vibe.

These resorts are typically part of vacation packages for sporting events and cheer competitions, so it isn’t unusual to find large groups staying here, which is partially why they have a bit of a negative reputation.

surf's up building - all star sports

Another downside to the All-Stars is that sometimes during slower times of the year (or even slower times of the day) they share buses. This isn’t all the time – so you may not even have it happen to you if you’re staying there, but it *does* happen, and it can really be a drag if you’re trying to get somewhere fast.

Like all the All-Star resorts, the food court here is perfectly adequate and typically also pretty busy. And while 4 adults can fit in the standard rooms, things will be tight, so keep that in mind.

The giant “football field” here is a popular spot for kids to run around. It is also popular for sport and cheer groups to use for gatherings or even mini practices. Because of the sport theme, it does feel like this All-Star resort sees the most traffic from those groups.

touchdown building - all star sports

Not that it is a bad or negative thing, just keep that in mind as no matter how well-behaved a group is, the volume levels do feel like they go up when there are a bunch of people traveling together dining, walking, etc.

Disney World Moderate Resorts Ranked

Disney World Moderate Resorts are just that – moderate, in both amenities and in price.

This category only has 4 resorts in it, and truth be told, while they all have pros and cons, we wouldn’t hesitate to stay at any of them.

Room sizes at the Moderate Resorts are slightly larger than Value resorts, maxing out at around 375 in a tower room at Coronado Springs’ Gran Destino Tower. Onsite dining is also more varied at the Moderates, and for all but Port Orleans – French Quarter, includes at least 1 Table Service restaurant.

Coronado Springs Resort

  • Resort Category: Moderate
  • 2024 Rates (low to high): $260-$3734 per night
  • Theme: Spanish, Mexican, and Southwestern American cultures
  • Room Types Available: Wide range of room types from Standard (with 1 King or 2 Queen beds) up to multi room suites, some with Club Level Access
  • Maximum number of guests per room: 8 adults
  • Dining Options: Quick Service and Table Service
  • Transportation Options: Bus
  • Proximity to Parks: Not within walking distance of any park

Pros: Beautiful grounds, less of a Disney feel and more adult-friendly than other resorts, great dining options, has a salon, health club and room service, Gran Destino tower offers Club Level amenities, central location means shorter bus rides to the parks

Cons: Large and spread out which can mean long walks, convention hotel which can mean large groups, not as kid-friendly as other resorts

Coronado Springs has always had the most amenities of any Disney Moderate resort, but with the construction of the Grand Destino Tower, the game was really upped.

So, when ranking Coronado Springs at the top of the list of Moderates, we do so with Gran Destino in mind. Without the tower, we’d probably have Port Orleans – French Quarter at #1.

The reason we love the Gran Destino tower so much is its location. This is the only Moderate Disney resort where you don’t have to leave the building to dine. There are interior walkways that take you to 2 of the 3 (yes, Coronado Springs has 3 Table Service restaurants!) without having to go out into the elements.

Plus, there are a couple of coffee shops and gift stores all within easy reach, too. And, the main pool (which is fabulous, by the way) and the 3rd onsite Table Service restaurant are just a short walk away, too.

Another huge perk to the tower rooms is the size. At 375 sq. ft., they are the biggest rooms in the moderate category by far.

The downside to the resort can be if you are in any of the other sections. While some are relatively close to the main building and tower, there are many buildings that are not, and that can mean quite a hike if you want to grab something to eat.

coronado springs resort

And, the tower rooms, while large, do not have bath tubs. That can make for difficult bath times for families with little ones.

Plus, overall this resort has a more adult vibe, primarily because Coronado Springs is also a huge resort for conferences. We’ve never been bothered by the conference attendees, but much like sports teams at the All-Star resorts, they do tend to move in bunches which can cause small traffic jams or louder than expected noise levels at restaurants. But, on the plus, because it is a conference resort, the Wi-Fi here is traditionally excellent and there are many pockets of spaces with tables to work if you need to do that while on a trip.

So, while we put Coronado Springs on top of the Moderates, we do so with the caveat that they are #1 only if you are staying in Gran Destino Tower. Otherwise, Port Orleans – French Quarter might be a better fit.

Port Orleans – French Quarter

Guest check in and registration
  • Resort Category: Moderate
  • 2024 Rates (low to high): $289-$552 per night
  • Theme: New Orlean’s French Quarter
  • Room Types Available: Standard or various Views (all with either 2 Queen size beds or 1 King size bed)
  • Maximum number of guests per room: 4 adults
  • Dining Options: Quick Service only
  • Transportation Options: Bus and Boat
  • Proximity to Parks: Not within walking distance of any park

Pros: Beautiful grounds, great theming, compact size, can take a boat to Disney Springs, only place on property you can get beignets, walking distance to Riverside where there are carriage rides available

Cons: No Table Service restaurant (can walk to Port Orleans Riverside to eat at a restaurant), buses are sometimes shared with Riverside which means they are more crowded and commutes can be long

If the Gran Destino Tower at Coronado Springs didn’t exist, Port Orleans – French Quarter would be our number 1. It definitely has our hearts, and the small, intimate size of this resort makes it a fan favorite of many others as well. Oh, and the beignets, too. The hot fresh beignets you can buy here also make it a favorite.

This resort checks the box for “Romantic”, but it also works well for families. We always marvel at how quiet this resort is compared to some of the others – which we love. And because the footprint is so small, nothing is very far away.

Port Orleans French Quarter

The only downside to Port Orleans French Quarter is the lack of onsite Table Service restaurant. But, that isn’t as bad as it seems considering there is a fantastic food court here that serves everything from burgers to Cajun favorites, and Port Orleans – Riverside and Disney Springs are just a quick boat ride away (you can actually walk to Riverside, too).

The rooms here sometimes feel a bit dark, but if you luck out and get a corner, you’ll get twice the windows, which really helps.

Room at Disney's French Quarter

But, if you want to stay here, you may want to book sooner rather than later. Its popularity and small size means that it can sometimes be difficult to snag a room, especially if you’re trying to use a promotion or discount.

Caribbean Beach

trinidad south caribbean beach resort
  • Resort Category: Moderate
  • 2024 Rates (low to high): $268-$552 per night
  • Theme: Caribbean islands
  • Room Types Available: Standard, Water or Pool View, and Preferred (all with either 2 Queen beds, 2 Queen Beds and 1 Child-Size Pull-Down Bed, or 1 Queen Bed and 1 Queen-Size Pull Down Bed and 1 Child-Size Pull-Down Bed)
  • Maximum number of guests per room: 4 adults and 1 child
  • Dining Options: Quick Service and Table Service
  • Transportation Options: Bus and Disney Skyliner
  • Proximity to Parks: Not within walking distance of any park

Pros: Beautiful grounds, good pool, access to the Disney Skyliner gondola system, within walking distance to Disney’s Riviera Resort

Cons: Rooms are often noisy, resort is large and spread out, the most internal bus stops of any Moderate Resort, no elevators

Disney’s Caribbean Beach used to be far down on the list of our Disney resort rankings, but recently, we’ve kind of fallen in love with it.

And the things that changed our relationship with this resort for the better? The Disney Skyliner and consolidating the main buildings.

Before they consolidated the main buildings at Caribbean Beach, there was one building that housed the front desk and one that housed the food court and other dining options. It was an awkward set-up that made the value of a Preferred Room not very valuable.

But then Disney did a total refurbishment and SHAZAM! The 2 buildings became one and suddenly, all was well in the world. Well, maybe it wasn’t THAT dramatic, but it was an improvement.

The next upgrade that this resort saw that has turned our feelings around was the installation of the Disney Skyliner. In fact, Caribbean Beach is the Skyliner hub. It is where both the Hollywood Studios and Epcot lines originate, making it extremely easy to get to those 2 parks.

disney skyiner at caribbean beach resort

Add to all that goodness the latest refurbishment, which brought touches of The Little Mermaid to the Trinidad section (and eliminated the dark Pirate themed rooms with the horribly small Full-Sized beds) and fresh, updated spaces to the rest of the resort, and one of our favorite restaurants, Sebastian’s Bistro, and this resort feels like it has been brought back to life.

But what about the negatives?

Probably the number one complaint about Caribbean Beach is the size. It is very spread out – and because the resort wraps around water, it makes getting around tricky and cumbersome.

little mermaid guest rooms caribbean beach resort

Because of the size, there is an internal bus to help you get around. But, there are also so many internal bus stops that it can greatly increase your travel time to the parks. Hold that in comparison to a resort like Pop Century that only has 1 bus stop, and you’ll see that it is a huge difference.

But, despite those drawbacks, we still wouldn’t hesitate to stay here. We do, however, wish they had a room category that was designated to be close to the Skyliner. Something like that would likely push Caribbean Beach even higher on our list.

Port Orleans – Riverside

port orleans riverside resort at walt disney world
  • Resort Category: Moderate
  • 2024 Rates (low to high): $289-$585 per night
  • Theme: Rural Louisiana
  • Room Types Available: Standard and Preferred (all with either 2 Queen Beds and 1 Child-Size Pull-Down Bed, 2 Queen Beds, or 1 King size bed) and Royal Guest Rooms (with 2 Queen Beds)
  • Maximum number of guests per room: 4 adults and 1 child
  • Dining Options: Quick Service only
  • Transportation Options: Bus and Disney Skyliner
  • Proximity to Parks: Not within walking distance of any park

Pros: Beautiful grounds, great theming, can take boat to Disney Springs, both a food court and restaurant on site, some rooms can accommodate up to 5 people, walking distance to Port Orleans French Quarter where you can get beignets, carriage rides available, dog friendly

Cons: Spread out, buses are often inconvenient

Port Orleans – Riverside is a perfectly fine resort. We don’t mean that negatively at all, but while there is a lot of positives at Port Orleans – Riverside, there are also a few challenges.

First the positives:

The grounds at Port Orleans – Riverside are definitely lush, and the buses here are usually efficient. Plus, like its sister resort, Port Orleans – French Quarter, there is a boat that can take you to Disney Springs. And we can’t forget that Port Orleans – Riverside is home of the Royal Guest Rooms, which are adorably decorated and themed with not-so-subtle nods to the Disney princesses.

Port Orleans Riverside Royal Guest Room

But, while there are definitely plenty of great things about this resort, there are a few reasons this resort is last on our list of Disney Moderate resorts.

First, the resort’s design, inspired by the rural Louisiana bayou, includes beautiful, sprawling grounds that invite leisurely strolls or romantic carriage rides in the evening. All that is great. The problem is, some of the buildings definitely give off “plantation” vibes, which just feels dated and not something we think Disney would construct if they were building this resort now.

Additionally, it might be time for a refresh inside, too, as some guests might find the room decor in the standard rooms a bit dated, lacking the freshness of the recent refurbishments seen at resorts like Caribbean Beach. This isn’t a dealbreaker for most, but it’s an area where Port Orleans – Riverside could use a touch of pixie dust.

Plus, much like Caribbean Beach, the size of the resort can make getting around somewhat cumbersome. The resort’s internal bus system, intended to mitigate this issue, can sometimes extend travel times to the parks, which can be frustrating if you’re trying to make rope drop at a park.

POR-Alligator-Bayou

But, despite those negatives, we still have had many perfectly fine stays here. It almost feels as if Riverside is a bit of a workhorse in the world of Disney resorts. It isn’t AMAZING, but it does the job it is intended to do, usually without too many issues.

Disney World Deluxe & Deluxe Villa Resorts Ranked

Disney Deluxe and Disney Deluxe Villas are the priciest of all the Disney resorts. These are the resorts that have the most amenities and the largest rooms. Often found at the same property or side-by-side (for example, Beach Club and Beach Club Villas), there are some considerable differences between Deluxe and Deluxe Villas that we should probably clear up before we go too far.

A Deluxe resort is your typical hotel room. There might be suites at the resort, but they are hotel suites.

Deluxe Villas, however, are your “home away from home”. The Villas are part of the Disney Vacation Club or DVC, which is Disney’s version of a timeshare. However, non DVC owners can stay there by booking directly through Disney or even by renting DVC points from an owner (which can save you some money).

To ensure accuracy in our rankings, as we evaluate based on various factors beyond just the room, we decided to group together the Deluxe accommodations and their corresponding Villas within resorts.

Polynesian Village Resort and Polynesian Villas and Bungalows

  • Resort Category: Deluxe and Deluxe Villas
  • 2024 Rates (low to high): $620-$6519 per night
  • Theme: South Pacific tropical oasis
  • Room Types Available: range from Standard Studios with multiple bed configurations to multi-room Suites and Bungalows, some with Club Level Access
  • Maximum number of guests per room: 8 adults
  • Dining Options: Quick Service and Table Service
  • Transportation Options: Bus, Boat, and Monorail
  • Proximity to Parks: On the Monorail loop to Magic Kingdom and Epcot

Pros: Easy access to both Magic Kingdom and Epcot by monorail (can walk to TTC to get Epcot monorail if you would like), boat option to Magic Kingdom, theming, view of Magic Kingdom fireworks with music piped in, very popular/delicious on-site restaurants, big rooms themed to Moana

Cons: High cost, shared buses which can mean long bus rides to places other than Magic Kingdom and Epcot, resort can feel too spread out, no Signature dining option

Looking for a quintessentially Disney experience wrapped in a lush, island-inspired atmosphere? The Polynesian Resort could be your perfect match.

The resort’s lobby, the Great Ceremonial House, is quite impressive to say the least. Filled with tropical plants and the soothing sounds of island music, it feels as if you have landed inside a tiki bar as soon as you enter.

polynesian lobby disney world

And speaking of tiki bars, the Poly is home to one of the most famous hidden gems on property – Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto. One of our favorite places to spend an evening, Trader Sam’s is an incredibly fun tiki bar that is a must-do for many WDW visitors.

In addition to Trader Sam’s, the Poly is also home to another restaurant with a near cult following: ‘Ohana. Not only is it delicious, but the views out across The Seven Seas Lagoon from the restaurant are stunning – especially during the fireworks.

And the location – while not within easy walking distance to any park, is just a short monorail or boat ride away from the Magic Kingdom and just a short monorail ride away from Epcot, too.

As for the rooms, both the Deluxe Villa (DVC) studio rooms and the regular Standard rooms on the Deluxe resort side are top-notch, and the Standard regular rooms even include subtle Moana elements.

But if we had to choose between the 2, this is one resort where we actually like the DVC studios better than the standard rooms, primarily because of their split bath design with one area containing a shower and sink, and another separate area with a toilet and an additional sink.

polynesian village guest room

The main drawback? The studios have one traditional bed and one fold-down. But, the fold-down bed is perfectly comfortable and worth the extra hassle to get that unique bath layout.

For a truly luxurious stay, The Villas at Disney’s Polynesian Resort also offer incredible over-the-water bungalows, complete with a little splash pool and a deck overlooking the water with Magic Kingdom in the background.

The Standard non-DVC rooms are lovely, too. You’ll just get a more traditional hotel experience with 2 beds, 1 bath, and a beverage cooler and coffee maker, unlike the DVC Studio which has a very small kitchenette complete with a tiny microwave.

Despite its many luxuries, the Polynesian Village Resort does have a few strikes against it. Firstly, its popularity means that it is often one of the most expensive properties onsite. Plus, guests looking for a more subdued hotel vibe might find the Polynesian’s immersive theming and lively atmosphere a bit too much. But, to be fair, this IS Disney World, and over-the-top theming is kind of their thing.

lava pool polynesian

But, on the rare occasion where budget isn’t a top concern or when we can get a good discount, all the great things about the Poly definitely make it our top choice when staying on property.

Beach Club and Beach Club Villas

beach club resort guest room balcony
  • Resort Category: Deluxe and Deluxe Villas
  • 2024 Rates (low to high): $564-$5029 per night
  • Theme: New England seaside
  • Room Types Available: range of rooms from Studios with various views and bed configurations up to multi-room Suites, some with Club Level access
  • Maximum number of guests per room: 8 adults
  • Dining Options: Quick Service, Table Service, and Signature Dining
  • Transportation Options: Bus, Boat, and Disney Skyliner
  • Proximity to Parks: Walking distance to Epcot and Hollywood Studios

Pros: Best pool of all the Disney resorts, 5-10 minute walk to Epcot, can walk or take boat to Hollywood Studios, Disney Skyliner station nearby, within walking distance of Boardwalk restaurants and entertainment

Cons: Buses are sometimes shared with other resorts, some rooms have standing balcony only, popular resort and pool so can be quite busy at times

If you’d like to pair a trip to the New England seaside with a Walt Disney World vacation, the Beach Club and its adjoining Beach Club Villas might just be your ticket to paradise

Located just a short walk away from Epcot’s International Gateway entrance and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the Beach Club is light, fresh, and oh so airy. And that delightful smell? I’m not sure what magic Disney puts into the scents it pumps through the lobbies of its resorts, but the lobby of the Beach Club might just be our favorite.

stormalong bay beach club

Not only does this resort smell divine, but the soft pastel tones and classic wooden accents create a tranquil vibe that can’t help but make you feel like you are on vacation.

The crown jewel of the Beach Club is undoubtedly Stormalong Bay, a sprawling 3-acre water wonderland that rivals any theme park attraction. With its sandy bottom, lazy river, and life-sized shipwreck with waterslides, it’s the perfect spot to relax after a busy day in the parks.

The location of the Beach Club means you’ll have easy access to tons of dining options, including restaurants inside Epcot, along The Boardwalk area, and even at the resort itself.

As for the accommodations, both the Villas and the standard hotel rooms are perfectly lovely. The beachy feel from the lobby carries through into the rooms, with subtle Disney touches, of course. The rooms are all a nice size, too.

beach club resort guest room

But of course, there are a few downsides. First, the resort, while not huge, is sprawling with long hallways. That can be annoying when you’re tired at the end of the day. Plus, the Beach Club’s prime location translates into premium pricing, so while an amazing resort, a stay here won’t be easy on the budget.

But for those who dream of sandy shores, the scent of the ocean, and the elegance of a bygone era, all within steps of Disney’s enchantment, the Beach Club and its Villas offer a seaside escape that’s hard to surpass. We love it here – and for trips with a heavy focus on Epcot, it is always one of our top choices.

Contemporary Resort and Bay Lake Tower

Goofy and Pluto on the lawn of the Contemporary
  • Resort Category: Deluxe and Deluxe Villas
  • 2024 Rates (low to high): $572-$5905 per night
  • Theme: Modern
  • Room Types Available: range of rooms from Studios with various views and bed configurations up to multi-room Suites, some with Club Level access
  • Maximum number of guests per room: 12 adults
  • Dining Options: Quick Service, Table Service, and Signature Dining
  • Transportation Options: Bus, Boat, and Monorail
  • Proximity to Parks: Walking distance to Magic Kingdom

Pros: Can walk to Magic Kingdom, easy to get to most other resorts using monorail or Magic Kingdon buses, views of Magic Kingdom fireworks, can view Electrical Water Pageant from hotel, large rooms, rooms themed to The Incredibles

Cons: Pool isn’t anything special, theming seems sterile to some people, bathrooms don’t have separate sinks and showers and the counter space is very limited, bus transportation can be shared with other hotels, can be noisy from Chef Mickey’s

There aren’t many resorts as iconic as Disney’s Contemporary Resort and for those drawn to sleek, modern design and the allure of staying within a stone’s throw of the Magic Kingdom, the Contemporary Resort and its adjacent Bay Lake Tower offer a uniquely futuristic Disney experience.

The Contemporary Resort and Bay Lake Tower complex includes three distinct sections.

First, there’s the Contemporary Resort Tower – that’s the iconic A-frame building you might have seen pictures of, with the monorail zooming right through it.

Next to it, there’s the Garden Wing, a separate building from the main A-frame tower (although it is connected via a covered walkway). The Garden Wing is further away from transportation (both monorail and bus) and typically has a lower price point than the main tower. It also isn’t as impressive (it is only 3 floors tall) but we love it because of how quiet it is. Both The Contemporary Resort Tower and the Contemporary Resort Garden Wing are exclusively traditional hotel rooms and suites.

Lastly, there’s Bay Lake Tower (Deluxe Villas part of the Disney Vacation Club), connected to the main tower of the Contemporary by a bridge known as “The Skyway Bridge”. The Deluxe Villas here range from studios to one-, two-, and three-bedroom Grand Villa accommodations, making them ideal for larger families or those seeking the comforts of home, including full kitchens and living areas.

While Bay Lake Tower and the Garden Wing have a peaceful vibe to them – the main tower is buzzing. With the monorail and diners at Chef Mickey’s, there is just a lot going on here. That isn’t a bad thing, but it is something to consider when picking a room.

We love the Garden Wing if we have a car because there is a parking lot right there with incredibly easy access to the rooms. But, there is just something special about staying in one of the Tower rooms, too. With views of Magic Kingdom or Bay Lake – it truly doesn’t get any better than that.

contemporary rooms incredibles theme

And speaking of Magic Kingdom, The Contemporary Resort and Bay Lake Tower are the closest resorts to that park. So close, in fact, that you can easily walk there in 5-10 minutes. That’s one of our most favorite reasons for staying here.

As for the rooms, the Contemporary rooms (both in the Tower and Garden Wing) have been reimagined recently and are now packed full of tasteful nods to The Incredibles. That movie’s mid-century vibe ties in perfectly with the entire aesthetic of the resort, and we love how it all looks.

contemporary rooms incredibles theme

Unfortunately, Bay Lake Tower rooms don’t have that same Incredibles theme, but they are still packed with lots of modern touches and sleek lines. Plus, because of the way it is situated, most of the rooms at Bay Lake have fantastic views of either Bay Lake or Magic Kingdom.

Both the Contemporary Resort and Bay Lake Tower share access to the standout feature of the resort, the monorail, providing guests with a convenient way to get to both Magic Kingdom and Epcot.

Plus, one of the best views for dining while watching fireworks can be found at California Grill, the iconic glass walled restaurant at the top of the Contemporary resort.

But despite all it has going for it, there are some reasons guests may not like it.

First, the sleek, modern design can feel a bit cold. Even the grounds are such a contrast to a resort like the Poly. There is nothing “lush” about the Contemporary Resort.

contemporary monorail

Secondly, the main tower can be more than hectic, and that noise can sometimes infiltrate the guest rooms overlooking the action below.

And finally, cost. All Deluxe and Deluxe Villa resorts are pricey, but the resorts that are within walking distance of a theme park are even more expensive. And with the location of the Contemporary being directly next to Magic Kingdom, the prices here are at a premium.

But, despite those drawbacks, we still love nearly everything about this stunning resort and if you’re looking for a fun place to stay with that iconic Disney look and feel, this might be a great option for you.

Grand Floridian Resort and Spa and The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa

grand floridian entrance
  • Resort Category: Deluxe and Deluxe Villas
  • 2024 Rates (low to high): $824-$6258 per night
  • Theme: Victorian elegance
  • Room Types Available: range of rooms from Studios with various views and bed configurations up to multi-room Suites, some with Club Level access
  • Maximum number of guests per room: 12 adults
  • Dining Options: Quick Service, Table Service, and Signature Dining
  • Transportation Options: Bus, Boat, and Monorail
  • Proximity to Parks: Walking distance to Magic Kingdom

Pros: One monorail stop away from Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Flagship Resort with very elegant theming, great on-site dining options, can take boat to Magic Kingdom, walking path to Magic Kingdom, view of Magic Kingdom fireworks and Electrical Water Pageant

Cons: Expensive, transportation to parks other than Magic Kingdom can take a while (shared buses, have to transfer monorails to get to Epcot), not as kid-friendly as other resorts, walking path to MK is long

If lavish is what you are looking for, then you’ll want to consider the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa.

standard room with garden view grand floridian

Packed with Victorian elegance and luxury, the Grand Floridian is Disney’s only AAA Four Diamond winner, and it definitely deserves that recognition. The resort itself is screams “elegant” with its grand, white exterior and red gable roofs, all influenced by the Hotel Del Coronado in California.

The lobby here is one of our favorites. Not only does it often have live piano music, during the holidays it also hosts a giant life-sized gingerbread house.

grand floridian lobby

The accommodations at the Grand Floridian are divided into two main categories: the rooms and suites within the main resort and the Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian, which are part of the Disney Vacation Club but available for all guests to book.

The main resort’s rooms and suites include plush furnishings and all the amenities expected of a luxury hotel, with many offering breathtaking views of the Magic Kingdom or The Seven Seas Lagoon.

And, you’ll find a similar look and feel in the Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian, with room size options ranging from studios to one-, two-, and three-bedroom Grand Villa accommodations, making them ideal for larger families or those seeking the comforts of home, including full kitchens and living areas.

Dining at the Grand Floridian is also a treat, with several top quality restaurants to choose from, including one of our favorites: Narcoossee’s.

While not as close to Magic Kingdom as The Contemporary, it is still walkable. Of course, you also have the option of the monorail or boat to get you there, too.

While the Grand Floridian and its Villas offer an unparalleled Disney resort experience, there are a few things that might give you pause before you book.

The sophisticated atmosphere and high-end dining options come with a premium price tag, making it one of the most expensive Disney resort options. Additionally, the formal setting may not appeal to those seeking a more casual or themed Disney experience.

grand floriidan gingerbread house

But, despite all of that, we find the Grand Floridian to be an excellent choice for anyone seeking luxury, convenience, and a bit of Disney magic.

Animal Kingdom Lodge and Animal Kingdom Villas (Jambo and Kidani)

animal kingdom lodge disney world
  • Resort Category: Deluxe and Deluxe Villas
  • 2024 Rates (low to high): $458-$4795 per night
  • Theme: African savanna
  • Room Types Available: Several options from standard rooms with 1 King or 2 Queen Beds to 3 Bedroom Villas, some with Club Level access
  • Maximum number of guests per room: 12 adults
  • Dining Options: Quick Service, Table Service, and Signature Dining
  • Transportation Options: Bus
  • Proximity to Parks: Not within walking distance of any park

Pros: Dedicated buses, less expensive than most Deluxe Resorts, great on-site restaurants, 1 of the most gorgeous WDW resorts, Savanna View rooms have view of animals, during less busy times upgrades are often possible

Cons: Not within viewing or walking distance of any theme parks, Standard View could be disappointing, rooms are smaller than average Deluxe Rooms, on-site restaurants are African and may not appeal to everyone

In our opinion, there is no resort at Walt Disney World more immersive than the Animal Kingdom Lodge complex. This expansive resort is divided into two main areas: Jambo House and Kidani Village, with both sharing a similar vibe inspired by African wildlife and culture.

Jambo House is the main building of the Animal Kingdom Lodge and serves as the centerpiece of the resort. It houses both Standard resort hotel rooms AND Disney Deluxe Villas (DVC) rooms and suites.

The lobby at Jambo House is beyond impressive, filled with towering ceilings and authentic African artifacts and the rooms, suites, and DVC villas at Jambo House are tastefully decorated with African-inspired furnishings and art, with many rooms offering balconies where guests can gaze out at giraffes, zebras, and other wildlife roaming the savannas right outside. If there was ever a resort to spring for a room with a view, this is it.

animal kingdom lodge room building

Of course, there are touches of The Lion King sprinkled in, but you truly don’t need Disney IP when there is a literal giraffe right outside your balcony.

Dining at Jambo House is an adventure in itself, with options like Boma – Flavors of Africa offering a buffet that takes guests on a culinary journey across the continent, and Jiko – The Cooking Place presenting a more upscale dining experience with a blend of traditional African, Indian, and Mediterranean cuisines.

Kidani Village is an extension of the Animal Kingdom Lodge. It consists of Disney Vacation Club Villas (DVC) but is available for all guests to book. Although the look at Kidani is very similar to Jambo, it feels more intimate. There is a separate lobby and amenities (including pools and dining options) at Kidani. However, guests can also use an internal shuttle to go back and forth between Jambo and Kidani, too.

Because Kidani is entirely Disney Vacation Club rooms, this portion of the resort houses studios to one-, two-, and three-bedroom Grand Villa accommodations, making them ideal for larger families or those seeking the comforts of home, including full kitchens and living areas.

While the Animal Kingdom Lodge and its Villas offer a retreat into the heart of Africa, the biggest drawback to Animal Kingdom Lodge is its location. While perfect for visits to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park, Animal Kingdom Lodge is farther from the other Disney parks, which may result in longer transportation times. On the positive, though, the location also means that the prices here tend to be on the lower end of the Disney Deluxe resorts.

animal kingdom lodge lobby

This resort is fantastic for animal lovers or for anyone wanting to spend some time outside of the parks enjoying their resort.

The Cabins at Fort Wilderness

  • Resort Category: Deluxe Villa (beginning Summer 2024)
  • 2024 Rates (low to high): $183-$392 per night
  • Theme: Modern rustic outdoors
  • Room Types Available: Wilderness Cabins (1 Queen Bed and 1 Queen-size pull down bed and 1 Bunk Bed)
  • Maximum number of guests per room: 6 adults
  • Dining Options: Quick Service and Table Service
  • Transportation Options: Bus and Boat
  • Proximity to Parks: Not within walking distance of any park

Pros: Accommodates up to 6 per cabin with separate bedroom and 2 TVs, full kitchen, peaceful, away from theme park noise, lots of on-site activities (archery, campfire, fishing, pony rides, etc), can park right next to cabin, dog-friendly, boat option to MK and nearby resorts

Cons: Buses have to be taken everywhere (including internally at the resort where they take you to the bus stops to the parks or to the marina for the boat to MK), a golf cart is a must (which is an extra expense)

The newest addition to the Deluxe Villas category are The Cabins at Fort Wilderness. At the time of this writing, the cabins are in the middle of a massive transformation where they are being totally re-worked and moved from the Moderate Category into the latest Disney Vacation Club (DVC) offering.

Since the refurbishment is still underway, our ranking of The Cabins at Fort Wilderness relies heavily on the surroundings. We are confident after seeing the renderings that the new cabins themselves will be amazing, though.

Unlike other DVC properties, your only option will be the 1-bedroom, 1-bath cabin. Each cabin will sleep up to 6 adults, though. There is also a full-sized kitchen, too. From what we can tell, it will have an upscale rustic feel, and be a lot brighter than the cabins that Disney is replacing.

But the real highlight of the Cabins at Fort Wilderness is the surrounding resort – which is huge and includes tons of spaces for traditional tent camping and RVs, swimming pools, horseback riding, campfire sing-a-longs, biking, and lots more.

It is truly one of our most favorite ways to do a low-key Disney World vacation. You could easily spend a day or more just exploring the resort and participating in what it has to offer.

The downside is that in addition to the cost of the cabin, you’ll definitely want to spend the money to add on a golf cart, too. You can rent directly from Disney or from an outside vendor, but the size of the resort makes having a golf cart a necessity, as cars aren’t allowed in all areas. There is an internal bus, but it can be a hassle when you are in a hurry to get somewhere, and we really wouldn’t recommend booking a cabin without a golf cart.

But, if we are totally honest, the golf carts are also one of our most favorite parts about staying here. Why is it so fun to drive a golf cart but driving a car is boring? We have no clue – but it is!

If you are lucky enough to stay at Fort Wilderness during the fall or holiday season, make sure you save some time to cruise around the campsites to look at all the over-the-top decorating that the campers do. It’s a real treat!

Wilderness Lodge, Boulder Ridge, and Copper Creek Cabins

  • Resort Category: Deluxe and Deluxe Villas
  • 2024 Rates (low to high): $447-$5412 per night
  • Theme: Turn of the century National Park lodges
  • Room Types Available: range from Standard Studios with multiple bed configurations to multi-room Suites and Cabins, some with Club Level Access
  • Maximum number of guests per room: 12 adults
  • Dining Options: Quick Service and Table Service
  • Transportation Options: Bus and Boat
  • Proximity to Parks: Not within walking distance of any park

Pros: One of the most affordable Deluxe resorts, beautiful at Christmas, great theming, beautiful grounds, can take boat to Magic Kingdom, can view Electrical Water Pageant

Cons: Smaller rooms than some of the other Deluxe resorts, not walking distance to any park, many rooms could use a refresh

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is like a cozy getaway inspired by turn-of-the-century National Park lodges, giving guests a taste of that grand, rustic vibe all while never leaving Central Florida.

Tucked away in this peaceful spot, you’ll have 3 choices for room accommodations: the main Wilderness Lodge, Boulder Ridge Villas, and Copper Creek Villas & Cabins, each with their own twist on that Wilderness Lodge vibe.

Wilderness Lodge itself is a marvel of lodge-style architecture, with a towering lobby built to resemble a National Park lodge, complete with totem poles, a massive stone fireplace, and exposed beams. The rooms in the main lodge reflect that same theming, with lots of rich wood accents.

Boulder Ridge Villas bring a touch of the 19th-century railroad hotels of the American West to the Wilderness Lodge. These Disney Vacation Club accommodations are housed in a separate building, designed to feel like a cozy mountain retreat, complete with a quaint lobby that features a fireplace and comfortable seating areas. The villas range from studios to one, two, or three-bedroom Grand Villas, all decorated with rustic elements that complement the overarching theme of the lodge. Boulder Ridge also has its own leisure pool, making it a quiet spot to relax away from the main activities of Wilderness Lodge.

Copper Creek Villas & Cabins offer a more modern take on the wilderness theme, mixing contemporary woodsy design with rustic touches. This newest addition to Wilderness Lodge includes not only villas ranging from studios to three-bedroom Grand Villas, but also super fun and unique waterfront cabins. Positioned right on the water’s edge, the water front cabins come complete with a plunge pool on the back porch, floor-to-ceiling windows, and upscale interiors.

In harmony with the upscale rustic vibe, Wilderness Lodge also has some fantastic dining options, including Whispering Canyon (which is known for its crazy antics), and the character meal Story Book Dining at Artist Point, which includes Snow White, Dopey, Grumpy, and the Wicked Queen!

As for recreation, you’ll find most of the standard fare plus boats and bike rentals, too.

Now for the downsides. Like Animal Kingdom Lodge, this Deluxe and Deluxe Villa option is typically a bit less expensive than the others due to its location. Although it does have boat access to Magic Kingdom, it isn’t walkable. And, while we love the vibe of this resort, others have reported that it is dark.

But if you love the thought of a Pacific Northwest hideaway mixed with Disney’s magic, Wilderness Lodge, along with Boulder Ridge and Copper Creek, is just the ticket. You get that cozy, rustic feel, all the modern comforts you could want, and loads of outdoor fun, all rolled into one.

Yacht Club

disney's yacht club resort
  • Resort Category: Deluxe
  • 2024 Rates (low to high): $569-$4093 per night
  • Theme: New England-style yacht club
  • Room Types Available: range from Standard Studios with multiple bed configurations to multi-room Suites, some with Club Level Access
  • Maximum number of guests per room: 6 adults
  • Dining Options: Quick Service, Table Service, and Signature Dining
  • Transportation Options: Bus, Boat, and Disney Skyliner
  • Proximity to Parks: Walking distance to Epcot and Hollywood Studios

Pros: Location is about a 5-10 minute walk to Epcot and the Boardwalk area, boat ride or walk to Hollywood Studios, close to Disney Skyliner Station, Stormalong Bay is the best on-site pool, Cast Members get higher praise than most other resorts, all rooms have balconies, dog friendly

Cons: Not as well suited for families with small children, shared buses with a few other resorts can mean long bus rides

Situated directly next to Disney’s Beach Club is its sister resort: The Yacht Club. It is kind of like the more formal older sibling, though. But don’t let that scare you off because although it isn’t as “charming” as Beach Club, there is still a lot to love about it. Plus, this is one of the few Deluxe Disney resorts that doesn’t have a Deluxe Villa (Disney Vacation Club) resort affiliated with it.

disney's yacht club lobby

Much like The Beach Club, The Yacht Club is all about that New England seaside charm. But instead of soft pastels, the Yacht Club is decked out in rich tones like a crisp navy blue and white, with deep wood accents. It’s all very nautical.

Because of the theming, the Yacht Club definitely feels more adult, and the fact that this resort also houses conference facilities amplifies that vibe a bit.

The rooms keep up with the theme, definitely leaning more into the sophisticated feelings of the rest of the grounds. But they aren’t cold. With their plush bedding, dark wood furnishings, and, for some, a balcony, it all works well.

disney's yacht club guest room

Because these 2 resorts are connected, they share the same amazing Stormalong Bay pool. This isn’t just any pool; it’s more like a mini water park, complete with a massive shipwreck replica, a lazy river, and one of the highest hotel waterslides at Disney.

disney's yacht club stormalong bay pool

There are several fantastic places to dine at the Yacht Club, plus there is also easy access to Epcot, Beach Club, and the entire Boardwalk area for dining.

Location-wise, the Yacht Club is a winner. Like the Beach Club, it’s just a stroll away from Epcot and a quick boat ride or walk to Hollywood Studios, making it super convenient for park hopping.

The only hitch might be the cost, since staying at the Yacht Club does mean splurging a bit. And if you’re all about that bold Disney decor, the Yacht Club’s more understated style might not be your cup of tea. But if you’re after a mix of nautical vibes with a sprinkle of Disney magic, the Yacht Club hits the spot perfectly. It’s ideal for anyone wanting a dash of luxury and a relaxed mood, all super close to the heart of Disney.

Riviera Resort

Riviera Resort
  • Resort Category: Deluxe Villas
  • 2024 Rates (low to high): $476-$5479 per night
  • Theme: European Riviera
  • Room Types Available: range from Standard Studios with multiple bed configurations to multi-room Suites
  • Maximum number of guests per room: 12 adults
  • Dining Options: Quick Service, Table Service, and Signature Dining
  • Transportation Options: Bus and Disney Skyliner
  • Proximity to Parks: Walking distance to Epcot and Hollywood Studios

Pros: Disney’s newest resort, dedicated Skyliner gondola station, fun character meal at Topolino’s Terrace

Cons: Expensive, feels less like a Disney resort than others in the same price category, not walking distance to any park, rooms can be quite small

Disney’s Riviera Resort is one of the resorts at Walt Disney World that are exclusively Deluxe Villas (Disney Vacation Club). But, even though it is all DVC, anyone can book it directly through Disney or by renting points (which can save you a lot of money).

The vibe of this resort is “European elegance”. It has an Italian Riviera influence that is reflected in everything from the architecture down to the restaurants.

disney skyliner at riviera resort

While we love the location of the Riviera and its easy access to the Disney Skyliner, we don’t LOVE the resort as much as others. There is nothing wrong with it. It is beautiful, the art in it is spectacular, and Topolino’s Terrace is one of our favorite character breakfasts.

But, to us, the entire resort just feels cold, and since it is only a tower (with none of the smaller buildings most of the other resorts have), it feels like something you could find anywhere.

Riviera Resort Room

The rooms are lovely, but the smallest studios are very, very small. And, the price tag to stay here isn’t cheap (but, you can save some money if you opt to rent DVC points). Also, if you’re looking for that in-your-face Disney theme in every corner, this place might feel a bit too grown-up.

Again, we know our opinion of the resort isn’t the norm because there are many people who love it here. If you’re on the fence about it, we recommend you give it a try, and maybe you’ll fall in love with it, too.

Boardwalk Inn and Boardwalk Villas

boardwalk inn resort disney world
  • Resort Category: Deluxe and Deluxe Villas
  • 2024 Rates (low to high): $691-$4702 per night
  • Theme and Atmosphere: early 1900s Atlantic City Boardwalk
  • Room Types Available: range from Standard Studios with multiple bed configurations to multi-room Suites, some with Club Level Access
  • Maximum number of guests per room: 9 adults
  • Dining Options: Quick Service, Table Service, and Signature Dining
  • Transportation Options: Bus, Boat, and Disney Skyliner
  • Proximity to Parks: Walking distance to Epcot and Hollywood Studios

Pros: Some rooms have views of Epcot and Hollywood Studios, 10-15 minute walk to Epcot, can take a boat or walk to Hollywood Studios, gorgeous theming, Disney Skyliner station nearby

Cons: No restaurants inside the resort (have to walk out on the Boardwalk to get to them), shared buses can sometimes mean long commutes, can be long walks to rooms (especially Villas rooms)

There is rarely a trip to Disney World where we don’t make at least 1 stop at the Boardwalk area. For those who have not yet visited WDW, it can be a little confusing, but there is The Boardwalk (which is the entertainment district) and then there are the 2 resorts located next to The Boardwalk: Boardwalk Inn and Boardwalk Villas. Clear as mud?

Located within walking distance of Epcot and Hollywood Studios, The Boardwalk Inn and Boardwalk Villas radiates a turn-of-the-century Atlantic seaside vibe. I know we use the word “charming” a lot when describing Disney World, but the word fits for a reason, and we definitely consider The Boardwalk Inn and Boardwalk Villas to be just that – charming.

The Boardwalk Inn has tons of rooms, all cozy and tastefully decorated with that same vibe you find in the lobby and common areas. And while the pool here used to be the thing of nightmares, the old clown that used to grace the slide has been replaced, making that area more appealing, too.

At Christmas, this is definitely one of our favorite resorts to visit as the colors and textures in the decorations are simply lovely. Plus, they have a gingerbread house here that is fun to see, too.

boardwalk inn standard view room beds

Right next door, the BoardWalk Villas offer a more homey feel, with studios and multiroom villas perfect for families or larger groups. These villas come with kitchenettes or full kitchens, making them ideal for longer stays or those moments when you just want a quiet meal ‘at home’. Plus, the added living space in the villas means everyone can spread out and relax.

But, the best part of this resort is the proximity to the Boardwalk itself. It’s a hub of activity, with restaurants, bars, and entertainment spots that come alive, especially in the evenings. Whether you’re in the mood for a fancy dinner, a snack, or some live entertainment, it’s all right there.

disney's boardwalk lit up at night

But now for the downsides. This resort is very close to Epcot, but the walk back always feels like it is at least 30 miles. I don’t know HOW that works, but it’s true. I think it is partially because the hallways inside the resort are long and winding – and even if your room is on the end closest to Epcot, you still have to walk back to the center of the resort to enter and exit there.

And it is even worse for the Villas side. They are further away from Epcot, meaning their walk is quite long, too – even though the park is directly behind the main part of the resort.

The other downside is that you have to leave the building to get to food. This is true at most of the Deluxe resorts – but it somehow just feels more egregious here. Maybe because at the other Deluxe resorts, you’re still technically in the resort, but at The Boardwalk Inn, you exit and go down to the Boardwalk area itself for food.

But for those who love the idea of stepping into a lively seaside resort from yesteryear, with all the perks of being at Disney World, the BoardWalk Inn and Villas could be an excellent fit!

Old Key West

old key west resort room building
  • Resort Category: Deluxe and Deluxe Villas
  • 2024 Rates (low to high): $474-$3221 per night
  • Theme: Florida Keys
  • Room Types Available: range from Standard Studios (with 2 Queen Beds) to multi-room Suites
  • Maximum number of guests per room: 12 adults
  • Dining Options: Quick Service and Table Service
  • Transportation Options: Bus
  • Proximity to Parks: Not within walking distance of any park

Pros: Largest rooms of all the DVC properties, least expensive of the DVC resorts, great theming, good on-site eating options, on-site activities (volleyball, shuffleboard, basketball, golf and lighted tennis and pickleball courts are available)

Cons: Can feel isolated, bus rides can be long, resort is spread out

Old Key West is the original Disney Vacation Club resort, and to this day, it continues to only house DVC Deluxe Villas.

As you can imagine from the name, Disney’s Old Key West Resort is like a little piece of the Florida Keys nestled right in the heart of Disney World. It’s very chill, with the largest of all the Deluxe Villa rooms.

The buildings are all in that pastel color palette that you’d find at the real Old Key West, and the entire resort has a relaxed feeling to it.

1 bedroom villa - old key west
1 Bedroom Villa at Old Key West

As for the rooms themselves, while once considered “tired”, we’re happy to say the rooms have been or are in the process of being refurbished complete with new flooring, textiles, appliances, paint, and furniture.

Dining at Old Key West is a treat, with Olivia’s Café dishing up some hearty home-cooked meals. Plus, there is The Gurgling Suitcase, which is a quirky little bar where you can grab a tropical drink and just chill.

The pool areas here are great and there are bike rentals and tennis courts, plus lots of other things you can do if the parks aren’t on your agenda.

And, because of its proximity to Disney Springs, you’ll also have boat access to that dining and shopping area, too.

The laid-back charm of Old Key West might not be for those seeking the thrill of the parks from dawn until dusk, and its quieter, more spread-out layout means you’ll be doing a fair bit of walking or waiting for buses. Plus, while the theming is immersive, it’s more “subtle”Old Key West” and less “Disney” than other resorts.

sandcastle pool old key west

But, for anyone looking for a balance between relaxation and the parks, Old Key West could be a definite contender – especially if you need the larger accommodations that this resort provides.

Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa

congress park building saratoga springs
  • Resort Category: Deluxe Villas
  • 2024 Rates (low to high): $475-$3635 per night
  • Theme: Victorian-style New York retreat
  • Room Types Available: range from Standard and Preferred Studios with multiple bed configurations to multi-room Suites and Treehouse Villas
  • Maximum number of guests per room: 12 adults
  • Dining Options: Quick Service and Table Service
  • Transportation Options: Bus and Boat
  • Proximity to Parks: Not walking distance to any park

Pros: Can walk or take boat to Disney Springs, can rent recreation equipment (bikes, surrey bikes, tennis, basketball and shuffleboard equipment), spa located on-site, beautiful grounds

Cons: Remote location, small rooms for a DVC property, theming isn’t as good as the other resorts, bus rides can be long, more outdated overall than other resorts

Last on our rankings for the Deluxe and Deluxe Villas (but definitely not last in our hearts) is Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa. Located directly next to Disney Springs (you can walk there from the resort), Saratoga Springs was designed to mimic the quaint upstate New York area of its namesake, known for its horse racing and healing spas.

This resort is all about relaxation and recreation, making it a great pick for guests who want to chill out and recharge in style.

fire pit saratoga springs

The resort plays into that equestrian theme, and the vibe is peaceful and laid-back. It is lush here, but there are also lots of green lawns and water views that add to the ambiance.

Like the other Disney Deluxe (Disney Vacation Club) resorts, Saratoga Springs also offers everything from cozy studios to spacious multi-bedroom villas that feel like a home away from home. They come with kitchens or kitchenettes, which is super handy for longer stays or those days when you just want to whip up your own meal.

For fun, you’re totally covered. There are loads of pools to choose from, like the main feature pool with a super cool waterslide that twists around rocks, and other chill “quiet” pools perfect for a relaxed dip. If you’re into golf, there’s a course right there. Fancy a game of tennis? They’ve got courts. Want to keep up your workouts? Hit the fitness center. And if you feel like cruising around, you can even rent a bike and check out the beautiful paths all around the place.

But, this resort is huge, which can make easily navigating it a chore. We aren’t huge fans that require you to use an internal bus to get to the main buildings, but if you are in one of the outer buildings here, you’ll either find yourself hiking or waiting on a bus. On the positive side, the spread out nature does add a sense of privacy and peace, so we guess it isn’t all bad news.

So, while Saratoga Springs may not be our first choice when it comes to Disney Deluxe Villa resorts, like all of the other resorts on property, we still wouldn’t hesitate to stay here. There is a lot to love about the entire resort and if the vibe is what you are looking for, you should give it a try, too.

Videos: watch resort tours of Disney World resorts

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