Planning a Walt Disney World vacation is one of the most exciting experiences, but with over 30 resorts to choose from, deciding where to stay can feel overwhelming. Disney World resorts are divided into three main tiers—Value, Moderate, and Deluxe (including Deluxe Villas)—each offering different levels of amenities, pricing, and proximity to the parks.
The resort you choose can significantly impact your Disney experience, from the level of comfort and convenience to the types of dining and transportation options available. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly stay, a mid-tier resort with enhanced amenities, or a luxurious escape close to the parks, this guide will help you make the best decision.
Understanding Walt Disney World Resort Tiers
Disney categorizes its resorts into three primary tiers, ensuring that every traveler can find accommodations that match their budget and expectations. Each tier offers a unique experience, dining options, room sizes, and transportation perks. Understanding the differences between these resort levels can help you make the most of your Disney stay.
What Are the Three Resort Tiers at Walt Disney World?
Value Resorts – Affordable accommodations with essential amenities, basic dining, and larger-than-life Disney theming.
Moderate Resorts – More spacious rooms, immersive theming, additional dining options, and enhanced pools and recreation.
Deluxe Resorts & Villas – Premium accommodations, prime park locations, signature dining, luxurious amenities, and top-tier service.
Value Resorts – Best for Budget-Conscious Travelers
Disney’s Value Resorts offer the most affordable way to stay on Disney property, making them a great choice for families who plan to spend most of their time at the parks rather than at the hotel. These resorts feature smaller rooms, bold Disney theming, and quick-service dining options.
What to Expect at a Value Resort
Value Resorts are ideal for guests who are looking for budget-friendly accommodations without sacrificing Disney magic. The theming is vibrant and fun, making these resorts particularly appealing to families with young children. However, they do have smaller rooms (about 260 sq. ft.), and the resort grounds are often spread out, which can mean more walking.
One important consideration is that Value Resorts do not have table-service restaurants, meaning all dining options are quick-service. While this is great for fast meals, guests who prefer sit-down dining may need to visit other resorts or theme parks for those experiences.
List of Walt Disney World Value Resorts
Disney’s Pop Century Resort – Best for Skyliner access and nostalgic theming.
Disney’s All-Star Music Resort – Features family suites for larger groups.
Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort – Offers a classic Disney movie theme.
Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort – Perfect for sports fans with an athletic-inspired setting.
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort – Known for family suites and immersive theming based on Disney films.
The Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort – Offers a rustic camping experience with budget-friendly accommodations.
Transportation at Value Resorts
Most Value Resorts rely on Disney bus transportation to the parks, which can take longer compared to other resort categories. However, Pop Century and Art of Animation have access to the Disney Skyliner, which provides quick transportation to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios—a significant advantage for those wanting a faster and more scenic way to travel.
Who Should Stay at a Disney Value Resort?
✔️ Families looking for an affordable way to stay on Disney property
✔️ First-time visitors who want to experience Disney theming without breaking the bank
✔️ Guests who plan to spend the majority of their time at the theme parks
Moderate Resorts – Best for Families Who Want More Space & Better Amenities
Disney’s Moderate Resorts offer a step up from Value Resorts, providing larger rooms, table-service dining, enhanced theming, and better recreation options. These resorts are perfect for guests who want more comfort without the price tag of a Deluxe Resort.
What to Expect at a Moderate Resort
Moderate Resorts feature spacious rooms (~320 sq. ft.), beautifully themed settings, and a mix of quick-service and table-service dining options. These resorts are also known for pools with water slides, unique recreation activities, and beautiful landscaping. Because Moderate Resorts are larger in size, guests may have to walk farther to reach the main resort areas, but multiple bus stops ensure easy access to transportation.
List of Walt Disney World Moderate Resorts
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort – Features Skyliner access and a tropical theme.
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort – Offers a more upscale experience with a business-class feel.
Disney’s Port Orleans – Riverside – Known for Southern charm and Royal Guest Rooms.
Disney’s Port Orleans – French Quarter – A quaint, New Orleans-inspired boutique-style resort.
The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort – A rustic retreat perfect for families who love the outdoors.
Transportation at Moderate Resorts
Most Moderate Resorts provide bus transportation, but Caribbean Beach Resort has access to the Disney Skyliner, offering quick transport to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. Port Orleans Resorts also feature a boat to Disney Springs, making it easier to explore shopping and dining options outside the parks.
Who Should Stay at a Disney Moderate Resort?
✔️ Families who want more space and upgraded amenities
✔️ Guests looking for resort activities and themed pools
✔️ Travelers who enjoy dining options beyond quick-service meals
Deluxe Resorts & Villas – Best for Luxury, Location, & Extra Amenities
Disney’s Deluxe Resorts offer the highest level of service, premium locations near the parks, and top-tier dining options. If you’re looking for spacious rooms, luxurious pools, and proximity to the theme parks, a Deluxe Resort is the best choice.
What to Expect at a Deluxe Resort
Deluxe Resorts boast elegant theming, immersive storytelling, and high-end accommodations with rooms ranging from 375-450 sq. ft. These resorts provide multiple dining options, including quick-service, table-service, and signature dining experiences. Many Deluxe Resorts are within walking distance or a short monorail, boat, or Skyliner ride from the parks.
List of Walt Disney World Deluxe Resorts
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge – Features Savanna-view rooms with real wildlife.
Disney’s Contemporary Resort – Walking distance to Magic Kingdom.
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa – Offers luxury accommodations and fine dining.
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort – South Pacific theming with Monorail access.
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge – A cozy, nature-inspired retreat near Magic Kingdom.
Who Should Stay at a Disney Deluxe Resort?
✔️ Guests who want the best locations and easiest park access
✔️ Travelers who prioritize fine dining and immersive theming
✔️ Families looking for larger rooms and extra amenities
Plan Your Dream Disney Vacation With Ease
Planning a trip to Walt Disney World can feel overwhelming with so many options for hotels, park tickets, and dining reservations—but I’m here to help.
As a Disney Travel Advisor, I specialize in crafting personalized Disney vacations tailored to your budget, travel style, and preferences. Whether you're visiting Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, or Animal Kingdom, I’ll help you design a stress-free and seamless trip from start to finish.
Start Planning in Just 6 Minutes
Fill out my quick Disney Vacation Planning Form, and I’ll take care of the details for you. The form covers:
Travel Dates & Party Size
Preferred Disney Hotels & Resorts
Theme Park Ticket Options
Dining & Special Experiences
Budget & Must-Do Attractions
Get Started Today
Click the link below to fill out the form, and I’ll be in touch with a customized plan for your Disney vacation.
Let’s make your Disney trip a reality—without the stress.
Kommentare