Your Ultimate Guide to Resorts in Disney World, Florida
Whether you’re a die-hard Disney fan or a first-timer seeking the magic of the Happiest Place on Earth, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll delve into the fantastical world of resorts at Disney World, Florida, covering all the essentials you need to know for a magical stay. So buckle up, my friend, and let’s get started on your dream Disney vacation!
Understanding the Magic: An Overview of Disney World Resorts
First things first, let’s get our bearings. Disney World, in Orlando, Florida, is home to more than 25 uniquely themed resorts, offering a range of experiences to suit every taste, budget, and fantasy. These resorts are divided into three categories: Value, Moderate, and Deluxe. Value resorts are budget-friendly options with fun, larger-than-life themes. Moderate resorts offer a middle-ground with themed environments and more dining and recreational choices. Deluxe resorts, the creme de la creme of Disney’s offerings, provide high-end amenities, full-service dining, and prime location proximity to the parks.
Best Value Resorts: Luxury on a Budget
Staying on a budget doesn’t mean you can’t soak in the magic. Let’s look at some of the top Value resorts:
1. Disney’s Pop Century Resort
Take a trip down memory lane as you step into the Pop Century Resort, a nostalgic homage to 20th-century pop culture. Each section of the hotel represents a different decade, from the 1950s to the 1990s, adorned with giant toys, dance crazes, and catchphrases. The rooms are colorful and comfortable, making it an excellent choice for families.
2. Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Perfect for larger families or groups, the Art of Animation Resort boasts spacious family suites themed after popular movies like “The Lion King,” “Finding Nemo,” and “Cars.” Its largest pool, the Big Blue Pool, is a fan-favorite, inspired by Finding Nemo.
Top Moderate Resorts: A Balance of Comfort and Cost
Moderate resorts at Disney World offer a balance of comfort and cost, featuring larger rooms, more dining options, and additional amenities compared to Value resorts. Here are a couple of favorites:
1. Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
Immerse yourself in the romance of the South at Port Orleans Resort – Riverside. Set along the picturesque Sassagoula River, it boasts beautiful landscapes, rustic-themed rooms, and a relaxed atmosphere. Boatwright’s Dining Hall, serving Southern dishes, is not to be missed.
2. Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
With a blend of Spanish, Mexican, and Southwest American themes, Coronado Springs Resort is unique among Disney’s offerings. It recently underwent a significant refurbishment, introducing a new tower with rooms offering stunning views and a rooftop restaurant.
Premium Deluxe Resorts: The Ultimate Disney Experience
Deluxe resorts are the ultimate Disney World experience. They’re often closer to the parks and provide luxurious amenities, multiple dining options, and immersive theming. Let’s explore a few:
1. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Want to wake up to a giraffe outside your window? That’s exactly what you get at the Animal Kingdom Lodge. This African safari-themed resort gives guests a chance to observe over 30 species of wildlife right from their room. The lodge offers an array of dining options, including African-inspired cuisine.
2. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Experience the pinnacle of Disney luxury at the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. It exudes Victorian elegance, complete with a live orchestra in the grand lobby. Located on the shores of the Seven Seas Lagoon, it’s just one monorail ride away from the Magic Kingdom.
Exploring Disney Vacation Club (DVC) Resorts
If you’re a regular visitor to Disney World, you might want to consider the Disney Vacation Club (DVC) Resorts. DVC is Disney’s timeshare program, but anyone can stay at a DVC resort, availability permitting. They offer studio rooms along with one, two, and three-bedroom villas with kitchenettes or full kitchens. Let’s dive into a few popular choices:
1. Disney’s Old Key West Resort
As the first ever DVC resort, Old Key West Resort exudes Floridian charm with its pastel-colored tin-roofed buildings and palm tree landscapes. The spacious villas and relaxed vibe make it perfect for larger families and extended stays.
2. Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows
Experience a slice of the South Pacific at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows. The resort offers not just studio rooms, but also over-the-water bungalows that can sleep up to eight guests. Plus, it’s just a monorail ride away from the Magic Kingdom.
Character Dining at Disney Resorts
No trip to Disney World would be complete without meeting your favorite Disney characters. Many resorts offer character dining experiences, where you can meet and interact with characters while enjoying a meal. Here are a few fan favorites:
1. Chef Mickey’s at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
A hit among kids, Chef Mickey’s allows you to enjoy a buffet meal with Mickey and friends. Located in the Contemporary Resort, it’s a great place to start your day before heading to the Magic Kingdom.
2. 1900 Park Fare at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
For a grand dining experience, head to 1900 Park Fare at the Grand Floridian Resort. Enjoy a lavish buffet breakfast or dinner while Cinderella, Prince Charming, and their fellow characters mingle with guests.
Staying Off-site: Good Idea or Not?
While staying at a Disney World resort offers many benefits, such as early access to FastPass+ selections and extended theme park hours, off-site hotels can be a budget-friendly option. Many nearby hotels offer free shuttle services to the parks and other conveniences. However, remember that the immersive Disney experience, including unique theming and character encounters, are exclusive to Disney resorts.
The resorts at Disney World offer something for everyone, from budget-conscious travelers to luxury seekers. No matter where you stay, you’re sure to find Disney magic around every corner. So get packing, choose your resort, and embark on the Disney vacation of your dreams.