Where to Stay at Walt Disney World: A Guide to Disney Resort Hotels

Staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel doesn’t just keep you close to the magic—it enhances your entire vacation experience. With imaginative theming, world-class service, and convenient park access, these resorts offer a seamless, stress-free way to enjoy your Disney getaway. Whether you're planning a budget-friendly trip or a luxurious retreat, there's a perfect Disney resort for every family, every travel style, and every dream.

Walt Disney World Resorts are grouped into three main categories based on price point, amenities, and theming: Value, Moderate, and Deluxe. Here’s what you need to know to choose the right one for your vacation.

Value Resorts at Walt Disney World

Oversized sports-themed decor at Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort.

Score big with sporty fun at All-Star Sports Resort 🏈⚾

Resorts in this category include:

  • Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort

  • Disney’s All-Star Music Resort

  • Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort

  • Disney’s Pop Century Resort

  • Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

Colorful, playful, and bursting with oversized Disney characters, Value Resorts are designed with fun in mind. These are the most budget-conscious options, with nightly rates typically ranging from $120 to $250.

The Big Blue Pool at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, glowing under lights with jellyfish sculptures and ocean murals.

A splash of color and fun at Art of Animation Resort 🐠🌈

Always Included at Value Resorts:

  • Two themed pools

  • A quick-service food court

  • Compact rooms that sleep 4–6 guests (with family suites available at All-Star Music and Art of Animation)

  • Complimentary bus transportation to all parks and Disney Springs

Transportation Tip: Pop Century and Art of Animation are both connected to the Disney Skyliner, offering a quick and scenic ride to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios.

These resorts are especially popular with families with young children and guests who plan to spend most of their time in the parks.

Moderate Resorts at Walt Disney World

Colorful Caribbean-style buildings beside the water at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort.

Soak up the sunshine and island vibes 🏝️🌈

Moderate Resorts include:

  • Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

  • Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter

  • Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside

  • Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort

  • The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort

Blending comfort, style, and immersive theming, Moderate Resorts offer a wonderful balance between value and luxury. Nightly rates typically range from $250 to $400.

The glass atrium entrance of Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter, with Mardi Gras details and a central fountain.

Jazz up your stay with French Quarter flair 🎷💜

What to Expect at Moderate Resorts:

  • Larger rooms than Value Resorts

  • Lush landscaping and tranquil settings

  • Table-service and quick-service dining options

  • Multiple pools, often with water slides

  • Optional recreation like bike rentals or boat rides

Transportation Tip: Most Moderate Resorts provide bus transportation. Caribbean Beach Resort also features a Skyliner station for easy access to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios.

These resorts are ideal for families or couples looking to slow the pace, enjoy downtime, and immerse themselves in the resort experience—not just the theme parks.

Deluxe Resorts at Walt Disney World

The modern architecture of Disney’s Contemporary Resort with the monorail running through.

Stay sleek and connected at Disney’s Contemporary Resort 🚄🌇

The Deluxe category includes the most luxurious accommodations at Walt Disney World. Expect nightly rates starting around $500, with premium rooms and suites easily exceeding $1,000 depending on the season.

Deluxe resorts are grouped by park proximity.

Magic Kingdom Area Deluxe Resorts:

The elegant white buildings and red roofs of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.

Experience timeless luxury at the Grand Floridian ✨🏖️

  • Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

  • Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

  • Disney’s Contemporary Resort

  • Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

EPCOT & Hollywood Studios Area:

The charming seaside-style architecture of Disney’s Beach Club Resort.

Chill out in coastal style at Disney’s Beach Club Resort 🏖️⛱️

  • Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

  • Disney’s Beach Club Resort

  • Disney’s BoardWalk Inn

  • Disney’s Riviera Resort

Animal Kingdom Area:

Thatched roofs and African-inspired architecture at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge.

Immerse yourself in safari elegance at Animal Kingdom Lodge 🦓🌍

  • Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

  • Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas

Deluxe Resort perks include:

  • Spacious rooms and suites with balconies

  • Signature dining and fine dining options

  • Club-level service and concierge lounges

  • Fitness centers, spa services, and on-site recreation

  • Unparalleled proximity to the parks

Transportation Tip: Many Deluxe Resorts offer monorail, Skyliner, or boat service, and several are within walking distance of Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, or Hollywood Studios.

Unique Highlight: At Animal Kingdom Lodge, you can watch zebras and giraffes roam the savanna—right from your balcony.

Deluxe Resorts are perfect for longer stays, special occasions, or families who want their resort to be as much a part of the magic as the parks themselves.

So, Which Disney Resort Is Right for You?

Anna smiles beside Minnie Mouse at a Disney character meet and greet.

Magical moments with Minnie and friends at the Riviera Resort 💫🐭

Whether you’re dreaming of a budget-friendly adventure filled with Disney character moments or a five-star retreat with a view of Cinderella Castle, there’s a Disney Resort that fits your vision for the perfect vacation.

💫 Ready to make some magic?

Let’s find the right resort for your family and start planning a Disney trip filled with unforgettable memories. Contact me today by clicking the button below!


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