Where Should I Stay at Walt Disney World?

When planning a Walt Disney World vacation, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is where to stay. With so many options both on and off property, it can feel a little overwhelming. But here’s our best piece of advice: stay on Disney property. Every time.

Why? Staying at a Disney resort doesn’t just mean a place to sleep—it means stepping into the story, soaking up the magic around the clock, and enjoying exclusive benefits that make your trip easier and more memorable. Here’s why we recommend it to all our clients:

Why You Should Stay at a Disney Resort?

• Location, location, location. You’re closer to the magic—literally. The resorts offer easy transportation options like buses, boats, the monorail, or even the Skyliner.
• Early Park Entry. Every Disney resort guest gets into the parks 30 minutes early each day. (Trust us, this can make a huge difference.)
• Seamless transportation. Skip the rental car! Complimentary transportation gets you where you need to go—no parking lots, no stress.
• Immersive theming. From larger-than-life characters to elegant lobbies and lush landscapes, Disney resorts are part of the experience.
• Convenience. Want to pop back for a midday pool break or nap? Staying on property makes that simple.
• Extra perks for deluxe guests. Some deluxe resorts offer Extended Evening Hours—a chance to enjoy select parks with lower crowds.

Understanding the Resort Categories: Value, Moderate & Deluxe

Disney offers three main resort categories—each with its own style, price point, and perks. Here’s how they compare, along with some of our personal favorites:

🏨 Value Resorts

Best for: Budget-conscious travelers, families with young kids, and guests who plan to spend most of their time in the parks.
Expect bright theming, larger-than-life Disney decor, and all the basics done well.

🌴 Moderate Resorts

Best for: Guests looking for a balance of value and comfort with a bit more space and style.
Moderate resorts offer bigger rooms, beautiful landscaping, and some extra amenities.

🏰 Deluxe Resorts

Best for: Guests wanting top-tier comfort, convenience, and a touch of luxury.
Expect spacious rooms, the best dining, prime locations, and added perks like Extended Evening Hours.

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✨ Not Ready to Book Yet? Start Here.

If you’re not quite ready to start planning together—but want expert-level advice at your fingertips—the 2025–2026 Disney World Planning Guide is the perfect place to begin.

This value-packed, 89-page PDF walks you through every step of planning a Disney vacation with less stress and more confidence. From choosing the right resort to understanding Lightning Lanes and crafting no-regrets park days, it’s like having a Disney travel advisor in your back pocket.

When you’re ready to take the next step, I’ll be right here. But until then…

👉 Grab the Guide and Start Planning Like a Pro https://wheretogotravelco.myflodesk.com/disney-world

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Should I stay at a Value Resort?

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to stay in the magic, Value Resorts are a great place to start. These are Disney’s most economical accommodations, offering a fun and functional home base with the key benefit of staying on property—without the deluxe price tag.

Let’s break it down:

Rooms & Layout:
Standard rooms come in around 260 square feet—cozy and efficient for couples or families who plan to spend most of their time in the parks. Need more space? Family suites at resorts like Art of Animation double the square footage (about 520 sq ft) and include a separate bedroom, two bathrooms, and a kitchenette. It’s a great setup for families who need a little elbow room without a deluxe budget.

Views & Pricing:
Not all views are created equal. Value resorts offer everything from parking lot views to pool or courtyard-facing rooms. While the standard view will save you some cash, the upgraded views may be worth the splurge—especially if you’re celebrating something special or just want to avoid staring at asphalt first thing in the morning.

Pools & Playtime:
Every Value resort has at least one large, whimsically themed pool—and while they’re fun and kid-friendly, they do not include water slides. If a twisty, splashy slide is part of your pool day dreams, you’ll want to look at Moderate or Deluxe resorts instead. That said, Value pools are still a big hit with kids thanks to interactive features, splash zones, and daily poolside games.

Dining & Drinks:
You won’t find table service restaurants at the Value resorts, but you will find large, well-organized food courts with a variety of options (think Mickey waffles, pizzas, burgers, and a few healthy picks). There’s also typically a pool bar for your afternoon cocktail fix, but don’t expect fine dining here.

Entertainment & Extras:
While amenities are more basic, you’ll still find some Disney-style fun—like outdoor movies under the stars, arcade games, and colorful playgrounds. It’s just enough to sprinkle in some downtime between park hopping.

Transportation:
All Disney resorts include complimentary transportation to the theme parks and Disney Springs—but at most Value resorts, that means bus service only. The two exceptions—and one reason they’re our favorites—are Art of Animation and Pop Century, which are part of the Disney Skyliner route. This convenient gondola system offers a scenic, quick ride to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios—and trust us, it’s a game changer.

Our Favorite Value Resorts:

• ⭐ Art of Animation – Beloved for its themed family suites (Cars, Finding Nemo, The Lion King) and splash-worthy pool.
• ⭐ Pop Century – A nostalgic nod to pop culture decades, plus easy access to the Skyliner.

Value resorts are the gateway to the magic, providing budget-friendly options without compromising on the whimsical Disney experience. Art of Animation and Pop Century, two distinct resorts, encapsulate the essence of Disney storytelling.

Art of Animation: Immerse yourself in the world of beloved Disney and Pixar characters. The resort features themed family suites, allowing guests to step into the worlds of The Little Mermaid, The Lion King, Finding Nemo, and Cars.

Read our full blog article on the Art of Animation here: https://wheretogotravelco.com/2025/04/05/disneys-art-of-animation-resort/

Pop Century: Journey through the decades with a nostalgic stay at Pop Century. From giant Rubix cubes to yo-yos, the resort celebrates iconic pop culture moments. It’s a vibrant and economical choice for those seeking a delightful and budget-conscious Disney experience.

Full resort bio here: https://wheretogotravelco.com/2025/04/06/disneys-pop-century-resort/

A list of all the Disney Value Resorts:

All Star Movies, All Star Music, All Star Sports, Art of Animation, Pop Century, and Campsites at Fort Wilderness.

Should I stay at a Disney Moderate Resort?

If you’re looking for a sweet spot between value and luxury, Moderate Resorts might just be your magic middle ground. These resorts offer upgraded amenities, more spacious rooms, and a little extra Disney flair—without the deluxe price tag.

Think of Moderates as the Goldilocks of Disney resorts: not too basic, not too fancy—just right.

Rooms & Layout:
Rooms at Moderate resorts are a bit roomier than their Value counterparts, averaging around 314 square feet. You’ll find queen beds instead of doubles, and some rooms even offer the option for a fifth sleeper (great for families with three kids). Design-wise, these resorts are more subdued and stylish—less cartoon, more charm.

Scenery & Ambiance:
One thing you’ll notice immediately? The theming at Moderate resorts is more immersive and tranquil. Whether you’re strolling through the romantic streets of Port Orleans French Quarter or the Southwest-inspired grounds of Coronado Springs, the setting really enhances the vacation vibe. Many resorts are sprawling, with lush landscaping, fountains, courtyards, and even walking paths along the water.

Pools & Water Fun:
This is where Moderate resorts start to shine. Each resort features a beautifully themed main pool complete with a waterslide (yes, finally!) and hot tub. Plus, quiet pools are scattered throughout the property for more peaceful dips. The pools at Port Orleans Riverside and Caribbean Beach, in particular, are guest favorites.

Dining Options:
Unlike Value resorts, Moderate properties feature both a quick-service dining area and a table-service restaurant—perfect if you want to sit down for a proper meal without leaving your resort. Coronado Springs takes it a step further with several lounges and dining venues, including the rooftop restaurant Toledo at Gran Destino Tower, which feels more like a deluxe experience without the deluxe pricing.

Extras & Entertainment:
Moderate resorts usually offer more recreational activities like fishing, bike rentals, and evening entertainment. You may even find a horse-drawn carriage ride or live jazz music at select properties. These are the kinds of thoughtful touches that help create that “we’re really on vacation” feeling.

Transportation:
Most Moderate resorts rely on the bus system for transportation to the parks. The exception is Caribbean Beach Resort, which acts as a hub for the Disney Skyliner, making it a convenient choice for EPCOT and Hollywood Studios access. Even so, resort layouts can be more spread out, so some guests opt for Preferred Rooms located closer to dining and transportation.

Our Favorite Moderate Resorts:

• ⭐ Port Orleans French Quarter – Small, charming, and romantic with cobblestone paths and beignets by the river.
• ⭐ Coronado Springs – A stylish, southwest-inspired resort with great dining, a fantastic pool, and a deluxe feel without the deluxe price tag.

Coronado Springs: A fusion of Mexican, American Southwest, and Colonial Spanish influences, Coronado Springs immerses guests in a tranquil atmosphere. With a scenic lake and beautifully landscaped grounds, it’s a perfect blend of relaxation and Disney enchantment.

Full resort bio here: https://wheretogotravelco.com/2025/04/08/disneys-coronado-springs-resort/

Port Orleans French Quarter: Transport yourself to the charm of New Orleans in this quaint and picturesque resort. With cobblestone streets, gas lamps, and jazz-themed decor, it offers a unique and tranquil escape.

Full resort bio here: https://wheretogotravelco.com/2025/04/07/disneys-port-orleans-resort-french-quarter/

A list of all the Disney Moderate Resorts

Caribbean Beach, Coronado Springs, Port Orleans French Quarter, Port Orleans Riverside, and Cabins at Fort Wilderness

Should I stay at a Disney Deluxe Resort?

If you’re dreaming of a resort stay that’s as magical as the parks themselves, Deluxe Resorts are where the pixie dust really sparkles. These are Walt Disney World’s most upscale properties—offering top-tier service, prime locations, immersive theming, and the kind of thoughtful details that elevate your entire vacation.

In short: if you want to stay in style and soak in as much Disney magic as possible, Deluxe is the way to go.

Rooms & Layout:
Deluxe rooms typically start at around 344 square feet and go up from there, offering more space, better layouts, and luxurious touches—like private balconies, upgraded bathrooms, and elegant furnishings. Some resorts even offer rooms with park views (hello, fireworks from your balcony!). You’ll also find options for suites and Club Level service for those looking for an ultra-premium experience.

Location, Location, Location:
One of the biggest perks of staying Deluxe is proximity to the parks. Want to walk to Magic Kingdom? Stay at Grand Floridian. Prefer to stroll into EPCOT or Hollywood Studios? Beach Club and BoardWalk Inn have you covered. Many Deluxe resorts also offer monorail, boat, or Skyliner access, which cuts down on transit time and adds convenience and charm to your park days.

Pools & Recreation:
Deluxe pools are in a league of their own. You’ll find elaborate theming, waterslides, zero-entry pools, hot tubs, and even poolside cabanas at select resorts. The pool at Beach Club—Stormalong Bay—is practically a water park in itself, with a lazy river and sand-bottomed areas. And when you’re ready to dry off, there’s plenty more to enjoy: spas, fitness centers, kids’ activity centers, specialty tours, and more.

Dining Delights:
This is where Deluxe really shines. Each resort features multiple dining options, from casual bites to signature dining experiences. Think character breakfasts at Chef Mickey’s, waterfront seafood at Flying Fish, or fine dining at the award-winning Victoria & Albert’s. With lounges, coffee bars, and in-room dining, you’re never far from something delicious.

Theming & Atmosphere:
Deluxe resorts have a more refined design approach—still magical, but more immersive and sophisticated. Whether you’re surrounded by the Victorian elegance of the Grand Floridian, the breezy Atlantic charm of the BoardWalk, or the relaxed coastal vibes of Beach Club, every detail feels intentional and immersive. It’s Disney storytelling at its finest—just with more thread count.

Transportation:
Deluxe resorts offer the most varied and convenient transportation options—walking paths, monorail access, boats, buses, and Skyliner routes, depending on your resort. Less time commuting means more time soaking up the magic.

Our Favorite Deluxe Resorts

We’ll be honest—choosing a favorite Deluxe resort is like trying to choose a favorite Disney snack. Each one has its own personality, perks, and magic, and we love them all for different reasons. The right fit really depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. Here’s a look at our top recommendations and why each one deserves a spot on your list:

• ✨ Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
  Elegant, sophisticated, and located just one monorail stop (or a scenic walk) from Magic Kingdom, the Grand Floridian is Disney’s flagship resort. Think fine dining, afternoon tea, spa services, and live piano music in the lobby. It’s the go-to for guests who love a touch of luxury.

Full resort bio: https://wheretogotravelco.com/2025/03/27/disneys-grand-floridian-resort/

• ✨ Disney’s Beach Club Resort
  Casual and coastal, the Beach Club wins major points for location (walk to EPCOT and take a boat to Hollywood Studios) and pool time (Stormalong Bay is practically a mini water park). It’s a relaxed yet refined stay that’s perfect for families and couples alike.

Full resort bio: https://wheretogotravelco.com/2025/04/05/disneys-beach-club-resort/

• ✨ Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
  Step into the charm of turn-of-the-century Atlantic City, complete with lively nighttime entertainment, delicious dining, and a breezy boardwalk vibe. You’re a quick stroll to EPCOT or a boat ride to Hollywood Studios—making it a favorite for park-hoppers.

Full resort bio: https://wheretogotravelco.com/2025/04/01/disneys-boardwalk-inn/

Boardwalk Update: the rooms have been renovated and they’re wonderful!

• ✨ Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
  Rustic and cozy with a grand Pacific Northwest lodge feel, Wilderness Lodge is perfect for guests who want that “cabin in the woods” vibe—with all the benefits of being close to Magic Kingdom. Cozy fireplaces, woodsy walking trails, and hidden Mickeys galore!

Full resort bio: https://wheretogotravelco.com/2025/04/03/disneys-wilderness-lodge/

• ✨ Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
  Tropical, laid-back, and bursting with island charm, the Polynesian brings a relaxed vacation feel to your Disney stay. Enjoy Dole Whip by the pool, views of Cinderella Castle across the lagoon, and easy access to Magic Kingdom via monorail or boat.

Full resort bio: https://wheretogotravelco.com/2025/03/30/disneys-polynesian-village-resort/

• ✨ Disney’s Contemporary Resort
  Modern design and unbeatable Magic Kingdom access make the Contemporary a standout. You can walk to the park, watch fireworks from your balcony, and enjoy dining at the iconic California Grill. Bonus: the monorail literally runs through the hotel.

Full resort bio: https://wheretogotravelco.com/2025/03/28/disneys-contemporary-resort/

• ✨ Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
  Refined and nautical, the Yacht Club shares that incredible Stormalong Bay pool with Beach Club but offers a slightly more polished atmosphere. It’s a favorite for adult travelers, convention-goers, or anyone who appreciates crisp service and a quieter vibe.

Full resort bio: https://wheretogotravelco.com/2025/04/04/disneys-yacht-club-resort/

Why Plan Your Trip with Us

Planning a Walt Disney World vacation can feel like a full-time job—resort decisions, park reservations, dining bookings, transportation, lightning lane reservations, virtual queues… it’s a lot. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to do it alone.

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.

When you plan your Disney trip with us, you get:

• Expert guidance on choosing the right resort (yes, even when they’re all amazing)
• Complimentary concierge-level planning for dining, park days, and extras
• Help with coordinating flights and transportation to and from the Orlando airport
• Tips and reminders to keep you ahead of the curve—so you never miss a booking window or ride time
• A real human who knows Disney inside and out (hi, it’s me!) and truly wants your family to have the best experience possible

We help our clients skip the overwhelm and start the magic early.

✨ Ready for your personalized Walt Disney World quote? Start planning here:

Let’s make your next Disney vacation the one you’ll talk about for years to come.

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✨ Get the 2025-2026 Walt Disney World Planning Guide

If you’re not quite ready to start planning together—but want expert-level advice at your fingertips—the 2025–2026 Disney World Planning Guide is the perfect place to begin.

This value-packed, 89-page PDF walks you through every step of planning a Disney vacation with less stress and more confidence. From choosing the right resort to understanding Lightning Lanes and crafting no-regrets park days, it’s like having a Disney travel advisor in your back pocket.

When you’re ready to take the next step, I’ll be right here. But until then…

👉 Grab the Guide and Start Planning Like a Pro https://wheretogotravelco.myflodesk.com/disney-world

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