Walt Disney World
Resort Hotel Overview
with
Mom Approved Travel
Stay in the Magic with Walt Disney World Resort Hotels
One of the most frequent questions we are asked by families looking to travel to Walt Disney World is usually: “What is the BEST Disney World hotel for families?” and this is a great question! Of course families want the BEST hotel! But here’s the thing, “best” is a relative term, and the answer is going to vary for each and every single family out there depending on their needs, so there is not a generalized answer. Your family is unique, and so should be your Walt Disney World hotel recommendation.
The better question to ask is: What is the BEST Disney World hotel for my family?
This is a question we can help with! There are no cookie cutter answers, as Disney Resort hotels are not cookie cutter. Each Walt Disney World Resort hotel has different price points, theme, vibe, resort amenities, transportation options, room options, bedding configurations, dining offerings, seasonal flair, and little nuances which make them unique.
There absolutely is a Disney Resort hotel for every family, and your Mom Approved Travel Agent will be able to match you with the best option for your family after your consultation. There are many times a Mom Approved Travel client family has come to us with the Disney hotel recommendation they received from their well-intentioned neighbor, their brother or friend and it was not the ideal resort for that family.
Contact our Mom Approved Travel experts to help you find the BEST fit for you and your family!
Knowing where you will stay for your Walt Disney World family vacation is one of the first steps in planning your Disney trip!
Feel free to read a little bit about each of these resort categories and resorts below, and then reach out to our Mom Approved Walt Disney World expert Travel Agents to ensure the best fit for your family!
Which Walt Disney World Hotel Is Best for Your Family?
Like we said above, the “best” Walt Disney World hotel depends on several factors including your family’s budget, park plans, transportation preferences, children’s age, sleeping needs and even time of year can affect the ideal hotel for you. Disney has so many different hotel options for a reason, so families have options. Mom Approved Travel compares these factors to help families choose the resort and room category that fit how they actually plan to vacation.
Which Disney Hotels Have the Easiest Access to Magic Kingdom?
Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort offer some of the most convenient access to Magic Kingdom.
The Contemporary has a walking path and monorail service, the Polynesian offers monorail and water transportation, while the Grand Floridian offers monorail, water transportation and a walking path. These Deluxe resorts generally have higher nightly prices, so the best choice depends on how much time your family plans to spend at Magic Kingdom and how much you value convenient transportation.
Which Disney Hotel Is Best for Strollers and Midday Breaks?
The best Disney hotel for stroller transportation and midday breaks is usually one located near the parks your family plans to visit most.
Families prioritizing Magic Kingdom may prefer a resort on the monorail loop or within walking distance. Families spending more time at EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios may benefit from an EPCOT area or Skyliner resort. Your park plans matter more than choosing one hotel that is described as the most convenient overall.
Which Disney Hotels Have Skyliner Access?
Disney’s Riviera Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney’s Pop Century Resort and Disney’s Art of Animation Resort have access to the Disney Skyliner.
The Skyliner provides transportation to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Caribbean Beach serves as the system’s main transfer station, while guests at Pop Century and Art of Animation travel through Caribbean Beach when changing routes. Weather interruptions, resort layout and the location of your room can affect the overall convenience.
Which Disney Hotels Are Best for Families of Five or More?
Families of five or more can consider selected rooms at Disney Deluxe Resorts, family suites at Disney’s Art of Animation and All Star Music, and larger accommodations at Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts.
Room capacity alone does not determine whether an accommodation will be comfortable. Bed types and configurations, bathroom layouts, privacy, storage and the ages of the children can make one room type much more practical than another. In some cases, two rooms may work better than one larger suite or villa.
Which Walt Disney World Hotels Have the Best Pools?
The Walt Disney World hotels with the best pools depend on the ages and interests of the travelers.
Families may prioritize a water slide, splash area, zero-entry pool, quiet pool or a more elaborate resort-day experience. Resorts such as Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts are frequently considered for their pool amenities, but the best pool for a preschooler may be different from the best choice for teenagers. Planned pool refurbishments should also be considered before making a final hotel decision if it is an important amenity to your family.
Which Disney Hotels Have Kitchens and More Space?
Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts offer many of the best options for families seeking kitchens, laundry facilities and additional living space.
Amenities vary by room category. Studios generally include kitchenettes, while many one-bedroom and larger villas include full kitchens and in-room laundry. Villas can work particularly well for multigenerational vacations, longer stays and families who need more privacy, but the additional space may increase the total vacation price.
Which Disney Hotels Offer the Best Value?
The Disney hotel offering the best value is the one that provides the room, transportation and amenities your family will actually use at a price that fits the overall vacation budget.
Value Resorts generally offer the lowest starting prices. Moderate Resorts may add more elaborate pools, dining and room options, while Deluxe Resorts may provide easier transportation and expanded amenities. A lower nightly rate does not always create the best overall value if it adds transportation time or requires a less suitable room arrangement.
How Does Mom Approved Travel Help Families Choose a Disney Hotel?
Mom Approved Travel helps families compare Walt Disney World hotels based on park plans, transportation, room configurations, resort amenities, vacation pace and budget. Our recommendations are personalized because the hotel that works well for one family may be frustrating or unnecessarily expensive for another.
These comparisons can help you begin narrowing the possibilities. Your Mom Approved Travel Advisor can then evaluate the specific resorts, room categories and available vacation packages that fit your family.
Not sure which Walt Disney World hotel is right for your family? Let Mom Approved Travel help you narrow down the resorts and room options that make the most sense for your trip.
What kinds of Walt Disney World Hotels are there ?
Walt Disney World Resort Categories Overview
There are essentially three generally accepted categories of onsite Disney Resort Hotels based on amenity level:
However, Mom Approved Travel Advisors break these down into unofficial subcategories when we are evaluating the best Disney hotel option for our Mom Approved Travel client families based on amenities, room capacity and resort location. We are going to break down the official Disney categories here for simplicity, though your Mom Approved Travel Advisor will go over your wants and needs in detail to ensure the best fit. These Disney World Resort hotels offer extra benefits we find are valuable for most families.
Note: You’ll notice we added some of our favorite Luxury Disney Good Neighbor Hotels to this page as well. We felt they were worth mentioning, as many of our Mom Approved Travel client families enjoy luxury accommodations. These properties share some of the same benefits as onsite Disney World hotels, but not all of the benefits of a Disney owned onsite hotel.
Your Mom Approved Travel Advisor is happy to review and secure these options if they are the best fit for your family.
Warning: If you feel overwhelmed reading this list of Disney World hotels, stop immediately and then reach out to a Mom Approved Travel Advisor. We will simplify your Disney World hotel options. Planning your Walt Disney World trip should be a fun process! Let us help take away the stress and drama of planning your Disney trip!
Walt Disney World Deluxe Resort Hotels
We are going to start with Walt Disney World’s top tier Disney-owned hotel category, Disney Deluxe Resort Hotels.
You will notice a second category below, the Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts. Some of the Disney Resorts have a “sister” Disney Villa side to the resort with slightly different room configurations and amenities- we separated these out in their own category for clarity.
Though many lump all of the Disney Deluxe Resorts into one group, these resorts really have location or transportation subcategories:
- Monorail area resorts
- Epcot area resorts
- Magic Kingdom area resorts
- Skyliner access resorts
Besides location, some of the benefits of choosing to stay at a Disney Deluxe level hotel, is the deluxe resorts generally have:
- higher level amenities
- larger room sizes than moderate or value resorts
- most Deluxe resorts can accommodate larger families of 5 (or larger)
- comfortable lounges with bar access
- access to exclusive extended evening hours on select nights
- offer table service and fine dining options
- deluxe pools with slides, hot tubs, cabanas and upgraded poolside amenities
- most have concierge or club level amenity room categories
- upgraded bathroom amenities (including upgraded toilet paper)
- some deluxe resorts have multi-room suite options
It is worth noting there are several Deluxe hotel options that offer covered walkways so you will not walk through the rain to get to breakfast or back to the room after a day at the parks, which is very Mom Approved!
Spending the holidays at a Deluxe Resort is also extra magical as some of the resorts have large gingerbread displays, elaborate decorations and multi-story Christmas trees. You could say the seasonal decor is deluxe as well!
Step into the heart of Africa at this magnificent Resort hotel. Inspired by the traditional African kraal, the horseshoe-curved design provides spectacular views of 4 lush savannas that over 200 hoofed animals and 30 different species of animals and birds call home. Delight in dazzling pool areas, exciting animal programs and one of the largest collections of African art in the United States as you experience your own African safari adventure with a touch of Disney magic.
Transportation options from Animal Kingdom Lodge to the Walt Disney World theme parks:
Magic Kingdom – Disney Bus
Epcot – Disney Bus
Hollywood Studios – Disney Bus
Animal Kingdom – Disney Bus
Pools: (2) Uzima pool with wading pool and 2 whirlpool spas.
Also access to Samawati Springs Pool at Disney’s Animal Kingdom – Kidani with waterslide, 2 whirlpool spas and water playground.
Club Level Options: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge has Club Level access room options available.
Discover the casual elegance of this charming, New England-style Resort hotel. Savor exquisite dining, and explore the pools, lagoons and spas of Stormalong Bay. Sail around Crescent Lake on a rented mini-powerboat, and experience the luxurious comfort of a Club Level Suite. Sharing many amenities with its more formal sister, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort.
Transportation:
Magic Kingdom – Disney Bus
Epcot: Approximately 5 minute Short Walk
Hollywood Studios: Approximately 20 min walk, Skyliner or water taxi
Animal Kingdom: Disney Bus
Pools: (4) Stormalong Bay – a 3 acre waterpark with lazy river, sand bottom pool, 230 foot tall shipwreck slide, 3 spas, 3 quiet pools: Tidal, Dune Cove and Admiral Pool
Club Level: Disney’s Beach Club Resort has Club Level access rooms available.
Experience the charm and whimsy of turn-of-the-century Atlantic City at this waterfront Resort hotel. Make a splash at Luna Park Pool and delight in a massage at the state-of-the-art fitness center. Discover carnival games, unique dining and exciting nightlife on the Coney Island-style boardwalk. Strung like saltwater taffy along the shimmering Crescent Lake.
Transportation:
Magic Kingdom – Disney Bus
Epcot: Approximately 5 minute Short Walk
Hollywood Studios: Approximately 20 min walk, Skyliner or water taxi
Animal Kingdom: Disney Bus
Pools: (3) Luna Park main pool with slide and kiddie pool and 2 Leisure pools: Inn Pool and Villas Pool
Club level: Disney’s Boardwalk Inn has Club level access rooms available.
Retreat to this ultra-modern Disney Resort hotel and discover award-winning dining, spectacular views and dazzling pools. Whether you’re staying in the iconic A-frame Contemporary tower or the nearby Garden Wing, you can walk to Magic Kingdom main gate or catch the Resort Monorail as it breezes through the tower.
Inside, a 90-foot-tall mural by Disney Legend Mary Blair, the artist responsible for the distinct look and feel of the “it’s a small world” attraction celebrates the Grand Canyon and the American Southwest.
Transportation:
Magic Kingdom – Approximately 9 minute walk, Monorail or Water taxi
Epcot: Monorail
Hollywood Studios: Disney Bus
Animal Kingdom: Disney Bus
Pools: (2) The Main Pool features a waterslide, Hot Tub and splash pad
Club level: Disney’s Contemporary Resort does have Club level access options available and the Bay Lake Pool is a quieter, leisure pool
Victorian elegance meets modern sophistication at this lavish Disney Resort hotel. Unwind outdoors, indulge in a luxurious massage and watch evening fireworks light up the sky over Cinderella Castle. This timeless Victorian-style marvel evokes Palm Beach’s golden era.
Transportation:
Magic Kingdom – Approximately 20 min walk, Monorail, Water taxi
Epcot: Monorail
Hollywood Studios: Disney Bus
Animal Kingdom: Disney Bus
Pools: (2) The Beach Pool has cabanas and Patios available for rental and adjacent Alice and Wonderland kiddie splash area offers fun for the littles. The Courtyard Pool is a quieter, leisure pool with patios and hot tub.
Club level: Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort does have Club level access rooms available.
Celebrate the spirit of the South Pacific at this oasis of tropical palms, lush vegetation and so much more. From moonlit nights immersed in the outdoor island ambience to the exotic tastes of our world-class restaurants, discover the signature tropical atmosphere that’s made Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort a favorite Disney destination since 1971.
Transportation:
Magic Kingdom – Monorail, Water taxi
Epcot: Monorail
Hollywood Studios: Disney Bus
Animal Kingdom: Disney Bus
Pools: (2) Lava Pool feature pool with volcano-themed 142′ curved slide, waterfall, zero-entry pool access, hot tub, adjacent kids water play area and the Oasis Pool offers a quieter leisure pool with shaded areas and offers food & drink poolside delivery from Oasis Bar & Grill
Club Level: Disney’s Polynesian Resort does have Club level access rooms available.
Escape to the rustic majesty of America’s Great Northwest. Inspired by turn-of-the-century National Park lodges, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge celebrates American craftsmanship and honors the beauty of the untamed wilderness. Soak in the splendor of the great outdoors, from nature trails through pine forests to rocking chairs that overlook a murmuring creek. Inside, discover towering totem poles, headdresses and more, and enjoy the rustic elegance of the stone hearth and roaring fireplace.
Transportation:
Magic Kingdom – Water taxi
Epcot: Disney Bus
Hollywood Studios: Disney Bus
Animal Kingdom: Disney Bus
Pools: (2) Copper Creek Springs Pool is the feature pool with waterslide, hot and cold whirlpool spaces, adjacent kids play area and Boulder Ridge Cove Pool offers a quieter leisure pool option with zero-entry access and a whirlpool spa
Club level: Disney’s Wilderness Lodge does have Club level access rooms available.
Delight in the formal grace of a grand New England-style yacht club at this lakeside hotel. Relax in the inviting elegance of a plush lobby replete with nautical touches, explore the whimsical Stormalong Bay and rent a variety of watercraft from Bayside Marina. Sharing many amenities with its pastel-toned sister, Disney’s Beach Club Resort.
Transportation:
Magic Kingdom – Disney Bus
Epcot: Short Walk
Hollywood Studios: 20 min walk, Skyliner or water taxi
Animal Kingdom: Disney Bus
Pools: (4) Stormalong Bay – a 3 acre waterpark with lazy river, sand bottom pool, 230 foot tall shipwreck slide, 3 spas, 3 quiet pools: Tidal, Dune Cove and Admiral Pool
Club Level Options: Disney’s Yacht Club Resort has Club Level access rooms available.
Walt Disney World Deluxe Villa Resorts Hotels
As stated above, many of the Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts are the “same” resort as the Disney Deluxe Resorts, but were built around the Disney Vacation Club concept, so some of the amenities and room configurations are a little different. There is a wide variation in the room types of the Disney Deluxe Villas. Some have simpler room configurations and some have full kitchens and multiple rooms! The Villa buildings are generally further away from the resort feature pools, and are closer to the quiet leisure pools.
These resorts also have location or transportation subcategories:
- Monorail area resorts
- Epcot area resorts
- Disney Springs area resorts
- Skyliner access resorts.
If it starts to feel a little tricky, remember MAT Advisors are here to sort it out for you!
Just like the Disney Deluxe level hotels, the Villa sides generally have higher level amenities, larger rooms, lounges, access to exclusive extended evening hours on select nights, elaborate pools and water play areas, table service and fine dining options, options for club level amenity rooms and some have multi-room suite options. And spending the holidays at a Deluxe Villa Resorts does feel extra magical with the elaborate decorations and multi-story Christmas trees in most of the Deluxe Villa Resorts.
You will notice there are a few resorts NOT on the first Disney Deluxe Resort list, like Disney’s Riviera Resort, Disney’s Old Key West and Disney’s Saratoga Springs, this is because these are exclusively Villa properties according to Disney nomenclature. The Villas are absolutely able to be booked by your MAT Advisor.
Warm luxury meets modern elegance at this lakeside Resort hotel located in walking distance to Magic Kingdom park. Delight in studios and multi-bedroom villas, kitchens or kitchenettes and dramatic views that may include old-growth cypress trees, the shimmering Bay Lake, the lush courtyard or Cinderella Castle. Enjoy enchanting pools and award-winning dining, plus the extensive offerings of Disney’s Contemporary Resort, connected by the convenient Sky Way Bridge. Deluxe studio, 1 bedroom, 2 bedroom and 3 bedroom villas available.
Transportation:
Magic Kingdom – Short walk or Monorail
Epcot: Monorail
Hollywood Studios: Disney Bus
Animal Kingdom: Disney Bus
Pools: (2) The Main Pool features a waterslide, Hot Tub and splash pad 
BOULDER RIDGE VILLAS AT DISNEY’S WILDERNESS LODGE
Recalling the 1860’s railroad hotels of the American West, Boulder Ridge Villas offer the comforts of home amid the rustic beauty of Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. Dine on traditional Pacific Northwest cuisine, explore trails through lush meadows and delight in the enchanting Copper Creek Springs Pool. Just a breezy boat ride to Magic Kingdom park, this Resort hotel celebrates the ethos of traditional craftsmanship and the great outdoors. Studio, 1 bedroom, and 2 bedroom villas available.
Transportation:
Magic Kingdom – Water taxi
Epcot: Disney Bus
Hollywood Studios: Disney Bus
Animal Kingdom: Disney Bus
Pools: (2) Copper Creek Springs Pool is the feature pool with waterslide, hot and cold whirlpool spaces, adjacent kids play area and Boulder Ridge Cove Pool offers a quieter leisure pool option with zero-entry access and a whirlpool spa 
Welcome to new idyllic retreat that evokes a rustic-elegant vibe, a perfect nod to the rich and pioneering heritage of the Pacific Northwest. Consider this your new go-to vacation base camp when pining for serene surroundings located just around the river bend from Magic Kingdom park. Standout features include a full range of accommodations with modern amenities, from Deluxe Studios to 26 waterfront Cabins with wraparound porches. Deluxe studio, 1 bedroom, 2 bedroom and 3 bedroom villas available.
Transportation:
Magic Kingdom – Water taxi
Epcot: Disney Bus
Hollywood Studios: Disney Bus
Animal Kingdom: Disney Bus
Pools: (2) Copper Creek Springs Pool is the feature pool with waterslide, hot and cold whirlpool spaces, adjacent kids play area and Boulder Ridge Cove Pool offers a quieter leisure pool option with zero-entry access and a whirlpool spa 
Experience your own African safari adventure! This Resort hotel’s horseshoe-curved design, inspired by the traditional African kraal, provides spectacular views of 4 lush savannas, where over 200 hoofed animals and birds freely roam. Enjoy the comforts of home in our spacious Studios and multi-bedroom Villas – and indulge in Club Level service for added luxury! Deluxe studio and 1 bedroom villas available.
Transportation: Disney Resort buses to Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom and Disney Springs
Pools: (2) Uzima pool with wading pool and 2 whirlpool spas. Also access to Samawati Springs Pool at Disney’s Animal Kingdom – Kidani with waterslide, 2 whirlpool spas and water playground.
Club Level: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House has Club Level access room options available based on availability.
Escape on your own African safari adventure at this magnificent Resort hotel. Inspired by the traditional African kraal, the horseshoe-curved design offers exquisite views of lush savannas – where over 30 species of African wildlife freely roam. Delight in dazzling pool areas, exciting animal programs and all the comforts of home in our spacious Studios and multi-bedroom Villas. Deluxe studio, 1 bedroom, 2 bedroom and 3 bedroom villas available.
Transportation: Disney Resort buses to Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom and Disney Springs
Pools: (2) Samawati Springs Pool with waterslide, 2 whirlpool spas and water playground. Also access to Uzima pool at Disney’ Animal Kingdom Lodge with wading pool and 2 whirlpool spas.
Club Level: Not available
Leisure, elegance and romance abound at this charming New England-style beach hotel. Enjoy the pools, spas and lagoons of Stormalong Bay, and the many amenities shared with Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts. Deluxe studio, 1 bedroom, and 2 bedroom villas available.
Transportation:
Magic Kingdom – Disney Bus
Epcot: Short Walk
Hollywood Studios: 20 min walk, Skyliner or water taxi
Animal Kingdom: Disney Bus
Pools: (4) Stormalong Bay – a 3 acre waterpark with lazy river, sand bottom pool, 230 foot tall shipwreck slide, 3 spas, 3 quiet pools: Tidal, Dune Cove and Admiral Pool
Club Level: Not available on the Villas side, but Disney’s Beach Club Resort has Club Level access rooms available.
Timeless elegance meets old-fashioned charm at this waterfront Resort hotel. Delight in saltwater taffy-colored cottages, private courtyards and picturesque gardens—plus the ragtime sounds and carnival pastimes of the exciting Coney Island-style boardwalk. Reminiscent of turn-of-the-century Atlantic City. Deluxe studio and 1 bedroom villas available.
Transportation:
Magic Kingdom – Disney Bus
Epcot: Short Walk
Hollywood Studios: 20 min walk, Skyliner or water taxi
Animal Kingdom: Disney Bus
Pools: (3) Luna Park main pool with slide and kiddie pool and 2 Leisure pools: Inn Pool and Villas Pool
Experience the romance of the Florida Keys at this tranquil community of Conch Flats—a sprawling island hamlet with shimmering waterways, swaying palm trees and manicured golf-course fairways. Delight in sun-soaked pools, casual dining and such amenities as fully equipped kitchens or kitchenettes. Deluxe studio, 1 bedroom, 2 bedroom and 3 bedroom villas available.
Transportation:
Magic Kingdom – Disney Bus
Epcot: Disney Bus
Hollywood Studios: Disney Bus
Animal Kingdom: Disney Bus
Escape to an enchanting oasis of swaying palms, tropical surroundings and an island ambience that evokes the languid spirit of the South Pacific. Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows makes its home at one of the original—and legendary—Walt Disney World Resort hotels. Deluxe studios available.
Transportation:
Magic Kingdom – Monorail, Water taxi
Epcot – Monorail
Hollywood Studios – Disney Bus
Animal Kingdom – Disney Bus
Pools: (2) Lava Pool feature pool with volcano-themed 142′ curved slide, waterfall, zero-entry pool access, hot tub, adjacent kids water play area and the Oasis Pool offers a quieter leisure pool with shaded areas and offers food & drink poolside delivery from Oasis Bar & Grill
Enchantment awaits you at a Resort hotel that’s inspired by Europe and imagined by Disney. Here, you can delight in exhilarating activities, delectable dining and stylish accommodations—from cozy Tower Studios to spacious villas with up to 3 bedrooms. Tower studio, deluxe studio, 1 bedroom, 2 bedroom and 3 bedroom villas available.
Transportation:
Magic Kingdom – Disney Bus
Epcot – Skyliner
Hollywood Studios – Skyliner
Animal Kingdom – Disney Bus
Pools: Feature pool and adjacent kids water play area
Inspired by historic Saratoga Springs – a late-1800s’ New York retreat famous for its spas and horse racing – this charming, Victorian-style Resort hotel is nestled between rolling golf course greens and the shimmering Lake Buena Vista. Delight in stately Studios and multi-bedroom Villas, dazzling pools and a spa. Deluxe studio, 1 bedroom, 2 bedroom and 3 bedroom villas available.
Transportation:
Magic Kingdom – Disney Bus
Epcot – Disney Bus
Hollywood Studios – Disney Bus
Animal Kingdom – Disney Bus
Revel in Victorian-style splendor and enjoy the comforts of home at this elegant Disney Resort hotel. Stay in a stately deluxe studio or multi-bedroom villa. Indulge in a luxurious massage at the full-service spa or receive a grooming service in the salon. Unwind outdoors as evening fireworks light up the sky over Cinderella Castle. Deluxe studio, resort studio, 1 bedroom, 2 bedroom and 3 bedroom villas available.
Transportation:
Magic Kingdom – Approximately 20 min walk, Monorail, Water taxi
Epcot – Monorail
Hollywood Studios – Disney Bus
Animal Kingdom – Disney Bus
Pools: (2) The Beach Pool has cabanas and Patios available for rental and adjacent Alice and Wonderland kids splash area offers fun for the littles. The Courtyard Pool is a quieter, leisure pool with patios and hot tub.
Walt Disney World Moderate Resort Hotels
Disney World Moderate Resort Hotels are the middle tier of Walt Disney World Resort Hotels and offer a nice balance of amenities and value.
In general, Moderate Disney Resorts have bus transportation to all 4 of the theme parks, with 2 exceptions: Caribbean Beach has access to the Skyliner and the Wilderness Cabins have Water Taxi access to Magic Kingdom. Some of the moderates are quite large and spread out and have internal bus systems with multiple stops at convenient bus stops.
Moderate Disney resorts will have a few more amenities than the Value resorts, such as Table Service Dining options (except for French Quarter, but it has Mickey Beignets and is only a few minutes walk to Riverside). Most of the Disney Moderate hotels have pools with slides or hot tubs as well.
Many of the Moderate hotels were made with larger families in mind, and most have Disney hotel options for 5. Your MAT Advisor can help you find the best sleeping configuration option for you.
Discover a world where life slows to a leisurely pace and worries melt away amidst Calypso rhythms. Awash with vibrant colors and lush landscapes, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort transports Guests to a relaxing paradise that captures the essence of 5 distinct islands: Barbados, Jamaica, Martinique, Trinidad and Aruba. Celebrate the spirit of the Caribbean with blissful sights and fun-filled activities – including colonial forts, lively markets, pristine beaches, splashy florals and swaying hammocks – sure to awaken the imagination.
Transportation:
Magic Kingdom – Disney Bus
Epcot – Skyliner
Hollywood Studios – Skyliner
Animal Kingdom – Disney Bus
From the stately white column mansions of Magnolia Bend to Alligator Bayou’s quaint backwoods cottages, delight in a picturesque setting that evokes the romance of rural Louisiana.
Take a short walk along the Sassagoula River to Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter, known for Southern specialties like gumbo, jambalaya and beignets.
Story-filled Princess inspired Royal room category available with over-the-top theming!
Transportation:
Magic Kingdom – Disney Bus
Epcot – Disney Bus
Hollywood Studios – Disney Bus
Animal Kingdom – Disney Bus
Revel in the romance and pageantry of New Orleans’s historic French Quarter at this Moderate Resort hotel. Discover cobblestone streets, gas lamps, wrought-iron balconies and fragrant magnolia blossoms, along with colorful Mardi Gras characters and the sounds of jazz. Then stroll along the lushly landscaped Sassagoula River to Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside, where the bayou beckons, as do Cajun and Creole specialties.
Transportation:
Magic Kingdom – Disney Bus
Epcot – Disney Bus
Hollywood Studios – Disney Bus
Animal Kingdom – Disney Bus
Celebrate the unique blend of Spanish, Mexican and Southwest American cultures at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort. This beautiful lakeside oasis offers classic influences, Disney touches and modern comforts to energize and inspire.
Transportation:
Magic Kingdom – Disney Bus
Epcot – Disney Bus
Hollywood Studios – Disney Bus
Animal Kingdom – Disney Bus
From jaw-dropping chandeliers to beautiful Spanish tiles, murals and wall patterns, Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort honors the rich culture of Spain and the collaboration of Salvador Dalí and Walt Disney. Gran Destino Tower rises dramatically on the southeastern shores of Lago Dorado at Coronado Springs. It offers modern guest rooms (including suites and club-level services), a grand two-story lobby, new lounges and a rooftop restaurant with spectacular views.
Transportation:
Magic Kingdom – Disney Bus
Epcot – Disney Bus
Hollywood Studios – Disney Bus
Animal Kingdom – Disney Bus
Nestled on 750 acres of pine and cypress forest, Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground evokes the timeless beauty of the American frontier. Teeming with such wildlife as deer, ducks, armadillos and rabbits, the Resort welcomes you to delight in scenic woodland trails, exciting pool areas, rootin’ tootin’ entertainment and hearty country eats.
Transportation:
Magic Kingdom – Water taxi
Epcot – Disney Bus
Hollywood Studios – Disney Bus
Animal Kingdom – Disney Bus
Walt Disney World Value Resort Hotels
Disney World Value Resort Hotels offer an affordable option with essential amenities for families with vibrant colors and bold theming.
All of the Value resorts offer complimentary Disney bus system transportation to the theme parks. Disney’s Pop Century and Disney’s Art of Animation Resorts have access to the convenient Skyliner system.
Most Value resort room configurations allow for a 4 person maximum capacity except for Disney’s Art of Animation, which is primarily composed of large family suites that will accommodate up to 6. Disney’s All Star Music also has a suite option, though most of our MAT client families will select the Art of Animation Family Suites. If you have a large family, your MAT Advisor can guide you and assist with connecting/nearby room request and finding the right room option for your family.
Imagine yourself sharing the spotlight with some of your favorite Disney friends, as you headline your very own all-star adventure. Stay at a Disney Resort hotel that salutes the legends of Disney films – from the dotted pups of 101 Dalmatians to the playful toys of Andy’s Room with whimsical, larger than life décor. Disney’s All Star Movies Resort offers both standard rooms plus family suite options.
Transportation:
Magic Kingdom – Disney Bus
Epcot: Disney Bus
Hollywood Studios: Disney Bus
Animal Kingdom: Disney Bus
Let the rhythm move you at this Resort hotel that pays homage to some of the world’s most popular music genres, including country, jazz, rock ‘n’ roll, calypso and Broadway-style show tunes. Large-sized, music-inspired icons outside and subtle song-and dance surprises inside provide a harmonious setting for music lovers of all ages.
Transportation:
Magic Kingdom – Disney Bus
Epcot: Disney Bus
Hollywood Studios: Disney Bus
Animal Kingdom: Disney Bus
Get in the game at this Resort hotel that salutes the world of competitive sports, including baseball, basketball, football, surfing and tennis. Go the distance and don’t be afraid to celebrate your inner fan amid sporty décor starring some of your favorite Disney characters.
Transportation:
Magic Kingdom – Disney Bus
Epcot: Disney Bus
Hollywood Studios: Disney Bus
Animal Kingdom: Disney Bus
Be surrounded in the artistry, enchantment and magic of Disney and Pixar movies. Stay at a Disney Resort hotel that invites you to explore the storybook landscapes seen in such classics as Finding Nemo, Cars, The Lion King and The Little Mermaid. From delightfully themed family suites to wondrously detailed courtyards, Disney’s Art of Animation “draws” you and your family in to become a part of some of your animated favorites.
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort offers both standard rooms plus family suite options.
Transportation:
Magic Kingdom – Disney Bus
Epcot: Skyliner
Hollywood Studios: Skyliner
Animal Kingdom: Disney Bus
Experience the unforgettable fads of the 1950s through the 1990s all over again. From yo-yos and Play-Doh® to Rubik’s Cube® and rollerblades, this Resort hotel salutes the timeless fashions, catch phrases, toys and dances that captivated the world through the decades.
Transportation:
Magic Kingdom – Disney Bus
Epcot: Skyliner
Hollywood Studios: Skyliner
Animal Kingdom: Disney Bus
Nestled on 750 acres of pine and cypress forest, Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground evokes the timeless beauty of the American frontier.
Teeming with such wildlife as deer, ducks, armadillos and rabbits, the Resort welcomes you to delight in scenic woodland trails, exciting pool areas, rootin’ tootin’ entertainment and hearty country eats.
Transportation:
Magic Kingdom – Water taxi
Epcot: Disney Bus
Hollywood Studios: Disney Bus
Animal Kingdom: Disney Bus
Luxury Good Neighbor Disney World Area Hotels
The Four Seasons AAA Five Diamond, luxury Orlando Resort offers an elevated escape with the perfect balance of fun and relaxation. Splash around with the family at Explorer Island water park, or unwind beneath swaying palms at Oasis adult-only pool while young ones are entertained at Four Season’s complimentary kids camp. Treat yourself to a soothing, post-park massage at The Spa, then toast to the nightly Walt Disney World® fireworks views over dinner at the incredible Michelin-starred rooftop steakhouse Capa.
As a valued Good Neighbor luxury resort, Four Seasons resort guests will enjoy the 30 minutes early entry into the parks.
Complimentary shuttle transportation is available through Four Seasons.
You can step into a newly refined haven of luxury, elegantly situated within Walt Disney World® Resort at the Waldorf Astoria Orlando. Recently re-imagined, guests will enjoy new design and culinary innovations at award-winning restaurants like Bull & Bear and Peacock Alley.
One of our favorite extras at the Waldorf Astoria is the Saturday Waldorf Astoria Afternoon Tea, a fun tradition that does require an advanced reservation.
In addition to the tranquil Waldorf Astoria Orlando pool, guests of Waldorf Astoria Orlando may also enjoy the pool, lazy river, water slide and private cabanas at the adjacent Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek. WA Kids Club will keep everyone ages 5 – 12 happily entertained and feeling welcome.
Complimentary luxury transportation to and from the Disney Theme Parks is available with the Waldorf Astoria’s shuttle service.
The Walt Disney World Swan Reserve is a boutique-style Deluxe hotel located within walking distance of EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s BoardWalk. Guests receive valuable Disney benefits, including Early Theme Park Entry, select Extended Evening Hours, complimentary theme park transportation and early access to purchase Lightning Lane passes. Contemporary rooms and larger suites—including options for families of six to ten—make it worth considering for travelers who want more space or a quieter atmosphere. Guests can also enjoy the pools, recreation and extensive dining options available throughout the neighboring Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin complex.
The Swan Reserve is a good match for families who prioritize location, modern accommodations and Marriott Bonvoy benefits over immersive Disney theming. Because it is not a Disney-owned resort, some details of the experience differ from the Disney Resorts Collection, so we compare those tradeoffs carefully when helping families choose where to stay.
Why stay at a Walt Disney World Hotel ?
Why you should stay at a Walt Disney World Resort Hotel
The most important decision you need to make when planning your Walt Disney World Vacation, is choosing when you should visit. The second most important decision is, where you will stay. There are so many options out there, it can feel very overwhelming, hence where your Mom Approved Travel Advisor comes in.
They will simplify the options for you based on your unique vacation needs. Remember, it is important to know we are Professional Travel Advisors, not order takers. Your Disney vacation is not simply a transaction to us, we are invested in making sure you have the ideal Walt Disney World experience for your family.
As an EarMarked agency and Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, we know why staying in a Walt Disney World resort makes the best return on investment of your vacation dollars for nearly all of our MAT client families.
Here are the benefits of staying on property at a Walt Disney World resort hotel:
- Convenience – Truly this is one of the top reasons to stay on property at Disney. The close proximity to the parks means you can get to the parks quicker, and spend less time in traffic. By staying in a convenient location, you can spend your time actually vacationing instead of traveling. This means more time relaxing, playing in the pools, or eating Mickey bars in the park! This also means it is MUCH easier to take a mid-day break, or for only part of your family go back to the resort for a nap.
- Complimentary transportation – Having the option of taking complimentary Disney transportation to all of the parks means you don’t have to negotiate traffic, find a parking spot, or navigating a map. You can relax (or even close your eyes for a few minutes at the end of the night) while the Disney resort to park transportation whisks you to the parks quickly and efficiently. Resort buses run about every twenty minutes, but early in the morning and near park closing they run more frequently. Some resorts have additional forms of transportation available including the Disney monorail, the Skyliner (a gondola-like system), water taxi or even short walking options. The logistics of the Disney Transportation system are incredible and it is really neat to see how quickly and efficiently their team moves families where they need to go!
- Priority access to advanced dining reservations – for table service restaurants. Staying at a Walt Disney World resort means you can reserve all of your Disney dining reservations at 60 days prior to your check-in date. Offsite guests can reserve dining only at 60 days prior to each day of their trip- which means they have to do to 6 am (est time) dining reservations every single day, where onsite guests can do them all at once. This means more sleep for you. Want even more sleep? Talk to your MAT Travel Agent about how they can your dining reservations for you!
- Early entry into the Walt Disney World theme parks – onsite resort guests will get an extra 30 minutes in the parks (with lower crowds) each morning, which some may feel is not a lot of extra time until they see the lines waiting outside the main gate at public park opening time – it’s quite the sight! And remember if you want to be at the parks when they open, but you don’t want to be there 30 minutes early- you can be 2 minutes early and be ahead of the crowds! Early theme park entry is for all 4 parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom.
- Extended evening hours – Disney Deluxe Resort and Disney Deluxe Villa level guests have the option to utilize extended evening hours on select nights at select parks, these hours are posted on the Disney Parks calendar and your MAT Advisor can assist to tailor a park touring plan for you if you would like to utilize this onsite resort benefit.
- Priority access to Lightning Lane purchases – Onsite guests are eligible to purchase Lightning Lane Multi Pass, Lightning Lane Single Pass and Lightning Lane Premier Pass up to 7 days ahead (versus up to 3 for other park guests). If this sounds like Greek to you, it’s okay, your Mom Approved Travel Advisor will make it make sense when it is closer to time to travel! All you need to know is it’s a good thing and will allow you the option of skipping the standby lines for the highest demand rides in each park.
- Convenience of Charging Privileges – Staying onsite means you have the option to put a credit card on file and use your MagicBand to charge dining, gift shop and other purchases to your room.
- Discounted MagicBands – You have the option to purchase MagicBand+ at a discount when ordering through your My Disney Experience app.
- For select summer dates in 2027 vacation packages, Walt Disney World Resort Hotel guests can enjoy a complimentary water park admission on check-in day, included with your stay.
- The Disney Bubble – while this benefit is not an “official” Disney hotel benefit, it is one that will be absolutely felt by your family. It is hard to describe to folks who have only known off-site Disney vacation stays, but staying within the Disney bubble allows you to stay immersed in the magic of Disney storytelling, Disney details, hidden Mickeys and allows you to keep the business of everyday life away for a bit longer. Families feel more relaxed, more immersed and the experience feels a bit more fantastical. You may feel as if you have truly escaped the troubles of the world for a bit and your trip will feel more magical. Staying in the Disney bubble also means you interact solely with the incredible Cast Members who REALLY make the difference in your Disney vacation.
There are many incredible onsite Walt Disney World Resort Hotels and your Mom Approved Travel Advisor will help you find the best fit for your family so you can have memories to last a lifetime!
What about luxury Walt Disney World area hotel options ?
Luxury Walt Disney World area hotel options
While there absolutely is a Walt Disney World resort hotel for all budgets, there are luxury Walt Disney World area hotel options for those whose travel love language or travel priorities lead them to seeking out elevated, 5-star or luxurious accommodations as well.
The word “luxury” may mean different things to different people, so your Mom Approved Travel Advisor has the experience to find the best fit for your family based on your unique priorities.
Many of the Disney Deluxe and Disney Deluxe Villa resorts offer club or concierge level options and specialty suites that meet the needs of many families. We also have a curated collection of distinctive luxury Walt Disney World Good Neighbor hotels available for Mom Approved Travel client families, such as the Waldorf Astoria Orlando and Four Seasons Resort Orlando which have distinctive experiences and benefits to help your Mom Approved Travel Agent curate the Walt Disney World vacation you have been dreaming of.
In addition to luxury accommodations, your Mom Approved Travel Advisor can assist with experiences to enhance your luxury Disney vacation including:
- incredible dining options
- VIP tours
- special events such as fireworks viewing parties
- private boat rentals
- spa experiences
- private photo shoots
- private chef experiences
- and more
Reviewed by Christy Slavik, VTA, CTA
Founder of Mom Approved Travel | Travel Advisor since 2015
Family & multigenerational travel specialist
Mom Approved Travel is an EarMarked By Disney Travel Agency
Last reviewed: September 30, 2026