Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort

Among Walt Disney World’s moderate resorts, Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort truly stands in a league of its own—especially if you’re staying in the stunning Gran Destino Tower. With sleek, modern rooms, exceptional dining, and refined amenities, it feels far closer to a deluxe resort than a moderate. This resort offers grown-up Disney touches without losing the magic, making it a top pick for guests who want a more sophisticated experience without the deluxe price tag. Whether you’re traveling for a family vacation, romantic escape, or attending a conference, Coronado Springs delivers an elevated stay wrapped in beautiful Spanish, Mexican, and Southwest-inspired design.

Where is Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort located?

Coronado Springs Resort is located in the Animal Kingdom Resort Area, near Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park. It sits on the western side of Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. With its central location, guests enjoy relatively quick access to all four theme parks, particularly Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

Who would enjoy staying at Coronado Springs Resort?

Coronado Springs is perfect for:

• Families who want a more upscale moderate resort
• Adults traveling without kids who want refined design and amenities
• Business travelers attending conferences at the on-site convention center
• Couples looking for a romantic atmosphere without splurging on a deluxe

With adult-friendly lounges, a stunning rooftop restaurant, and beautifully landscaped grounds, this resort balances fun and sophistication.

Room Types at Coronado Springs Resort

Coronado Springs Resort offers a wide range of accommodations:

• Standard Rooms: Located throughout the Casitas, Ranchos, and Cabanas sections

• Preferred Rooms: Closer to El Centro and dining areas
• Water View Rooms: Offer views of Lago Dorado or pools
• Gran Destino Tower Rooms: Sleek and modern rooms in the tower, with club-level options and stunning views

• Suites and Executive Suites: Ideal for families or those needing more space

Club Level at Gran Destino

Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is the only moderate resort that offers Club Level rooms—and they’re located right inside Gran Destino Tower. This means you can enjoy many of the same concierge-level perks you’d find at deluxe resorts, but at a more moderate price.

Guests who book Club Level gain access to the Chronos Club, a beautifully designed lounge that offers light bites and beverages throughout the day—including beer and wine in the evenings. It’s a quiet retreat, perfect for a pre-park breakfast or winding down after a long day at the parks.

Club Level rooms also come with extra touches like personalized service, help with dining and experience reservations, and an overall more seamless, pampered stay. For guests who like the idea of added comfort and convenience (but aren’t ready to splurge on a deluxe resort), this is an incredible value.

Value vs. Moderate vs. Deluxe: What’s the Difference?

If you’re trying to figure out where Coronado Springs fits in the big picture of Disney resort categories, here’s a quick breakdown:

• Value Resorts (like Pop Century or All-Star Music) are the most budget-friendly option. They offer fun, over-the-top theming and basic accommodations. You’ll typically find exterior hallways, smaller room sizes, and fewer dining options.
• Moderate Resorts, including Coronado Springs, are a step up in both comfort and amenities. Expect larger rooms, better pools (often with slides), multiple dining choices, and a more relaxed atmosphere. Coronado Springs goes a step further with amenities that rival some deluxe resorts, especially with the addition of Gran Destino Tower and Club Level.
• Deluxe Resorts (like Disney’s Grand Floridian or Beach Club) are the most luxurious, with spacious rooms, prime locations near the parks, signature dining, and additional perks like monorail or Skyliner access and extended evening hours.

Coronado Springs—with its stylish Tower rooms, impressive dining, and Club Level offerings—has become a standout in the moderate category, and even rivals some deluxe resorts in experience

Are there rooms to avoid at Coronado Springs Resort?

While all rooms are well-appointed, guests looking to minimize walking may want to avoid rooms in the outer Ranchos buildings, especially if not using the Gran Destino Tower. If you want to be close to dining and transportation, request a room in Casitas 1-3 or in the Tower. The Ranchos section is beautifully themed but can feel remote to some.

Best Restaurants at Coronado Springs Resort

Dining at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is one of the reasons this resort feels like such a hidden gem. Whether you’re craving casual bites or elevated cuisine, this resort delivers—with standout flavors and some truly beautiful settings. Here’s a full rundown of the dining options:

Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood

Perched on the rooftop of Gran Destino Tower, Toledo is a showstopper. The restaurant draws inspiration from Spanish cuisine, offering a refined mix of small plates, perfectly grilled steaks, and fresh seafood. Think charred octopus, scallops with romesco, and aged Spanish cheeses. The ambiance is warm and modern, with dramatic lighting and floor-to-ceiling windows that offer sweeping views of Walt Disney World—fireworks included on a clear night. If you’re celebrating a special occasion (or just want a memorable meal), this is your spot.

Dahlia Lounge

Just steps from Toledo, this rooftop lounge is chic and stylish, with a subtle nod to Spanish surrealist art and design. Dahlia Lounge offers a curated list of Spanish wines, craft cocktails, and small bites like Spanish charcuterie and artisanal cheeses. The outdoor terrace is one of the best-kept secrets on Disney property—order a drink, step outside, and enjoy panoramic views as the sun sets or fireworks sparkle in the distance. It’s a grown-up Disney dream.

Three Bridges Bar & Grill at Villa del Lago

Set in the middle of Lago Dorado and connected by—you guessed it—three bridges, this open-air restaurant is laid-back yet surprisingly elevated. The menu blends familiar flavors with global influences, featuring dishes like coconut curry chicken, poke bowls, and their fan-favorite warm manchego cheese dip. With twinkle lights, lake views, and sangria on tap, it’s one of the most relaxing dining spots in all of Walt Disney World.

Rix Sports Bar & Grill

Looking for a casual meal and a place to catch the game? Rix has you covered. This modern sports bar serves up comfort food with a twist—think loaded nachos, burgers, and wings—alongside a full bar. Great for lunch, dinner, or a casual evening hangout.

El Mercado de Coronado

This is the resort’s main quick-service location, offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You’ll find a range of options here, from Mickey waffles in the morning to burrito bowls, roasted chicken, and flatbreads later in the day. It’s convenient and efficient for a grab-and-go meal before heading to the parks.

Laguna Bar

Located near the Dig Site pool area, Laguna Bar is a breezy lakeside spot that serves refreshing cocktails, beer, and wine. It’s the perfect little pit stop after a swim or before dinner at Three Bridges.

Barcelona Lounge

Tucked inside the gorgeous Gran Destino Tower lobby, Barcelona Lounge serves up craft coffees and pastries in the morning, and transitions into a sleek bar in the afternoon and evening with Spanish-inspired drinks, including gin and tonics served the European way. The décor alone is worth stopping by—it’s airy, artsy, and unmistakably chic.

Pools and Recreation at Coronado Springs Resort

The feature pool, The Lost City of Cibola Pool, is themed around ancient Mayan ruins and features a 50-foot pyramid with a waterfall and a 123-foot-long waterslide. It’s one of the best pools at a moderate resort.

Additional leisure pools are located in each of the three village areas (Casitas, Ranchos, Cabanas). There’s also:

• A playground
• Volleyball court
• Jogging trails around Lago Dorado
• Campfire activities
• Movies under the stars

Shopping at Coronado Springs Resort

Panchito’s Gifts and Sundries is the resort’s primary shopping location. Guests can find:

• Disney apparel and souvenirs
• Snacks and beverages
• Toiletries and travel essentials
• Coronado Springs-themed merchandise

FAQ’s About Coronado Springs Resort

What makes Coronado Springs Resort a good moderate resort pick?
It offers deluxe-style amenities (like a rooftop restaurant and club-level rooms) at a moderate price, making it an excellent value.

Is Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort a moderate resort?
Yes, it’s classified as a moderate resort within the Walt Disney World Resort collection.

How much does it cost to stay at Coronado Springs Resort?
Prices typically range from $250 to $500+ per night depending on the room type, season, and availability.

What is the best room location at Coronado Springs Resort?
Gran Destino Tower rooms are the most centrally located and feature modern upgrades. In the outer villages, Casitas buildings 1-3 are closest to dining and transportation.

Can I visit Coronado Springs Resort if I’m not staying there?
Yes! Guests are welcome to dine at the restaurants, visit lounges, or explore the grounds.

Does Coronado Springs Resort have a good pool?
Absolutely. The Lost City of Cibola Pool is a standout among Disney moderate resorts.

Can I go to the pool if I’m not staying at Coronado Springs Resort?
No. Pool access is reserved for registered guests of the resort.

Is Coronado Springs Resort on the Skyliner?
No, Coronado Springs does not have Skyliner access. Transportation to the parks is via bus.

Can you see fireworks from Coronado Springs Resort?
Yes, some rooms in the Gran Destino Tower offer distant views of fireworks from EPCOT and Hollywood Studios.

What park is Coronado Springs Resort closest to?
Disney’s Animal Kingdom is the closest theme park.

Does Coronado Springs have elevators?
Yes. Gran Destino Tower and the Casitas buildings have elevators. However, some of the outer village buildings may not, so it’s good to request a ground-floor room if needed.

Is Coronado Springs good for kids?
Yes! The pool, playgrounds, and open spaces make it a fun place for families.

Is Gran Destino Tower worth the upgrade?
For us, yes—for the modern rooms, beautiful views, and easier access to dining and amenities.

Is there a gym or fitness center?
Yes. There are two fitness centers: La Vida Health Club near the Casitas and a second gym in Gran Destino Tower.

Can I walk to any parks from Coronado Springs?
No, the parks are not within walking distance. Complimentary Disney buses are provided.

Ready to plan your trip to Walt Disney World?

Want help deciding if Coronado Springs is the right fit for your Disney vacation? I’d love to help! 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. Reach out and let’s plan something magical together!