Disney’s Pop Century Resort

Disney’s Pop Century Resort is a fan-favorite among Walt Disney World guests for good reason. This vibrant value resort offers a nostalgic journey through pop culture from the 1950s to the 1990s, with colorful icons, larger-than-life theming, and an unbeatable location on the Disney Skyliner route. It’s an especially smart pick for travelers on a budget—one of only two value resorts with direct Skyliner access, making it both affordable and incredibly convenient. Whether you’re a first-timer or a Disney veteran, Pop Century delivers great value without compromising on the magic.

Where is Disney’s Pop Century located?

Disney’s Pop Century Resort is located in the ESPN Wide World of Sports Area, just across Hourglass Lake from Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. It’s centrally positioned within the Walt Disney World Resort, offering easy access to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios via the Disney Skyliner. Bus transportation is also available to Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, and Disney Springs.

Who would enjoy staying at Disney’s Pop Century?

Pop Century is ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers who want to stay on Disney property without a hefty price tag. Its upbeat theming appeals to both kids and nostalgic adults, while the Skyliner access makes it a strategic choice for park hoppers. It’s also a solid pick for guests who prioritize value and convenience over luxury amenities.

What Is the Difference Between Value, Moderate, and Deluxe Resorts?

Walt Disney World offers three tiers of resort hotels—Value, Moderate, and Deluxe. Each tier differs in price, amenities, room size, and proximity to the parks. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Value Resorts (like Pop Century): Budget-friendly with bold, fun theming. Rooms tend to be smaller and feature motel-style layouts with exterior-facing doors. These resorts often have large pools, food courts, and bus or Skyliner access to parks.
• Moderate Resorts: A step up in room size and amenities. These resorts usually have more dining options, water slides at the pools, and beautifully landscaped grounds. Rooms still often have exterior doors but in a more tranquil setting.
• Deluxe Resorts: Premium accommodations with interior room access, upscale dining, spas, and the closest proximity to the parks. Many offer direct monorail, boat, or walking access to the parks and feature luxurious amenities.

Pop Century stands out in the Value category thanks to its Skyliner access—offering a taste of convenience typically found in higher-tier resorts.

Room Types at Disney’s Pop Century

Pop Century features recently refurbished rooms designed for both comfort and efficiency. Here are the room categories:

• Standard Room: Views of the parking area or resort grounds. Available with either 1 King bed or 1 Queen bed and 1 Queen-size table bed (Murphy style).
• Preferred Room: Same layout as Standard but closer to the main Classic Hall, transportation, and dining areas.

Are there rooms to avoid at Disney’s Pop Century?

While every building at Pop Century is well-themed, rooms in the 80s and 90s sections are farthest from the main amenities and Skyliner station. If proximity and convenience are priorities, consider booking a Preferred Room in the 50s or 60s sections. Guests sensitive to noise may also prefer rooms away from the main pool areas.

Restaurants at Disney’s Pop Century

Pop Century has one main dining option—Everything POP Shopping & Dining, a large food court that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. While there’s not a signature restaurant on-site, the variety and convenience make it a hit for busy park days.

Here’s what you’ll find:

• Grab & Go: Muffins, pastries, pre-made salads, and sandwiches.
• Hot Entrées: Rotating menu of comfort food classics like pasta, burgers, pot roast, and pizza.
• Customizable Stations: Create-your-own omelets in the morning or pasta bowls in the evening.
• Desserts: Cupcakes, cookies, and the cult-favorite tie-dye cheesecake.
• Mobile Order Available: Skip the lines and order ahead on the My Disney Experience app.

Guests can also stroll across the Generation Gap Bridge to visit the Art of Animation’s Landscape of Flavors for additional quick-service dining options.

Pools and Recreation at Disney’s Pop Century

Pop Century has three themed pools:

• Hippy Dippy Pool: The main pool located in the 1960s section, shaped like a flower with fun water jets and poolside activities.
• Bowling Pool: In the 1950s section, shaped like a bowling pin.
• Computer Pool: In the 1990s section, shaped like a giant computer monitor.

Each pool area includes laundry facilities and nearby restrooms. Lifeguards are on duty during operating hours, and complimentary towels are available. There’s also a playground, a 1.1-mile jogging trail around Hourglass Lake, and evening Movies Under the Stars.

Shopping at Disney’s Pop Century

Attached to the Everything POP food court is the resort’s retail shop, also called Everything POP Shopping & Dining. Here you’ll find:

• Disney-themed apparel and accessories
• Resort-specific merchandise
• Plush toys and souvenirs
• Travel essentials and sundries
• Snacks and bottled drinks

Pop Century vs. Art of Animation

Since Disney’s Pop Century and Art of Animation are sister resorts—connected by the Generation Gap Bridge and sharing the same Skyliner station—many guests find themselves deciding between the two. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you choose:

Pop Century is often the more budget-friendly option, offering standard rooms with a fun retro vibe. Its theming is bold and playful, but not as immersive or character-driven as its neighbor. It’s a great choice for couples, solo travelers, or families who don’t need the extra space of a suite.

Art of Animation leans heavily into Disney animation, with themed family suites inspired by The Lion King, Cars, and Finding Nemo. If your group needs more room to spread out or your kids light up at the sight of giant characters around every corner, this resort might be worth the slightly higher price point.

Bottom line? If you’re looking for a great value with convenient Skyliner access and don’t mind a shorter walk across the bridge for a photo op with Lightning McQueen, Pop Century is a fantastic pick.

FAQ’s About Disney’s Pop Century

What makes Disney’s Pop Century a good value resort pick?

Pop Century combines affordability with upgraded rooms and convenient transportation—especially the Skyliner access to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. It’s one of the best overall values on Disney property.

Is Disney’s Pop Century a value resort?

Yes, it is part of Disney’s Value Resort category. This means lower nightly rates, simple amenities, and family-friendly theming.

How much does it cost to stay at Disney’s Pop Century?

Rates vary by season but generally range from $150 to $300 per night. Prices can increase during peak travel periods and holidays.

Can I visit Disney’s Pop Century if I’m not staying there?

Yes! Anyone can explore the resort, dine at Everything POP, or walk the paths around Hourglass Lake. It’s a great stop if you’re riding the Skyliner.

Does Disney’s Pop Century have a good pool?

Yes. The Hippy Dippy Pool is the highlight, offering fun theming and scheduled activities. The quieter Bowling and Computer Pools are great for relaxation.

Can I go to the pool if I’m not staying at Disney’s Pop Century?

Pool access is limited to registered guests of Pop Century. MagicBands are often required for entry.

Where does the Skyliner take you?

The Disney Skyliner from Pop Century connects to:

• Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort (the central hub)
• EPCOT (via Riviera Resort)
• Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Can you see fireworks from Disney’s Pop Century?

You may catch distant views of fireworks from EPCOT or Hollywood Studios from upper-level rooms or outdoor walkways, but views are limited.

What park is Disney’s Pop Century closest to?

Hollywood Studios is the closest park, accessible in about 10 minutes via Skyliner. EPCOT is a close second, also via Skyliner.

Planning your Walt Disney World vacation? At Where To Go Travel Co, my goal is to make your dream vacation as seamless and stress-free as possible, from start to finish. Contact me today for personalized help booking your resort stay, park tickets, dining, and more!