
Choosing the right Walt Disney World Resort hotel is a significant part of planning a magical Disney vacation. With so many incredible options, it can be challenging to narrow down which resort best suits your family and vacation goals. From free transportation to exclusive amenities, Disney Resorts offer perks that enhance the overall experience.
To help you select the perfect resort, consider these five essential questions before making your reservation.
5. Where Is the Resort Located Within Walt Disney World?
Walt Disney World is massive, spanning four theme parks, two water parks, Disney Springs, and over 20 resorts. Understanding the resort’s location within this expansive area can make a big difference in your experience.
Think about how you plan to spend your time:
- Magic Kingdom Focus: If most of your days will be spent at Magic Kingdom, consider a Monorail Resort such as Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, or Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. These resorts provide quick and convenient monorail access to Magic Kingdom.
- EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Guests who plan to spend more time at these parks may prefer a resort on the Disney Skyliner route, such as Pop Century, Art of Animation, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, or Disney’s Riviera Resort. The Skyliner offers a scenic and efficient way to travel between these parks and the resorts.

While all resorts provide free transportation, proximity to your primary destinations can significantly reduce travel time, making your trip more enjoyable.
4. What Transportation Options Are Available?
One of the biggest perks of staying at a Disney Resort is access to free transportation, including buses, monorails, boats, Skyliner, and walking paths. However, the type of transportation available varies by resort, and this can influence your choice.
- Walking Paths: Resorts like Disney’s Contemporary Resort and Disney’s BoardWalk Inn offer walking paths to nearby parks, which can save time and provide flexibility.
- Skyliner Access: Perfect for families with strollers, as there’s no need to fold them. Resorts like Art of Animation and Riviera offer easy Skyliner access.
- Monorail and Boats: Resorts like Polynesian Village and Grand Floridian provide scenic and convenient travel options to Magic Kingdom or EPCOT.
Knowing which transportation methods are available can help ensure a smoother experience, especially if you have specific needs or preferences.
3. How Big Is the Resort?
Disney Resorts vary greatly in size, and this can impact your stay. Larger resorts like Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa, and Old Key West offer sprawling layouts. While these provide plenty of space and amenities, they often require longer walks to reach pools, dining areas, and transportation hubs.
If convenience is a priority, smaller resorts like Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter or Disney’s Wilderness Lodge might be a better fit.
For larger resorts, consider requesting a room closer to key locations such as the main building or transportation stops when booking. This small detail can save time and energy, especially after a long day in the parks.
2. What Are the Room Layout and Size?
Understanding the layout and size of the rooms at your chosen resort is essential, especially if you’re traveling with a larger group or children.
- Value Resorts: These rooms, found at resorts like Pop Century and Art of Animation, are smaller and perfect for budget-conscious travelers. However, they may feel cramped for larger families or groups.
- Moderate Resorts: Resorts like Port Orleans Riverside or Coronado Springs offer slightly larger rooms, often accommodating families needing extra space.
- Deluxe Resorts: Resorts such as Disney’s Yacht Club and Animal Kingdom Lodge provide a range of room types, including suites with 1, 2, or 3 bedrooms. These are ideal for families who need additional space or want a more luxurious experience.
Consider how much time you plan to spend in your room. If you’re mostly there to sleep and shower, a smaller room may suffice. However, for longer stays or larger groups, the added comfort of a moderate or deluxe room can make a significant difference.
1. What Amenities Does the Resort Offer?
Each Disney Resort provides a unique array of amenities, so it’s important to determine what matters most to you.
- Value Resorts: These offer basic amenities, including pools, food courts, and poolside bars. They’re a great choice for families who plan to spend most of their time in the parks.
- Moderate Resorts: In addition to basic amenities, moderate resorts like Caribbean Beach and Port Orleans Riverside feature upgraded pools with slides, table-service dining options, and quiet pools for relaxation.
- Deluxe Resorts: For the ultimate experience, deluxe resorts offer top-tier amenities such as signature dining, world-class pools, fitness centers, and recreational activities. For example, Disney’s Beach Club Resort features Stormalong Bay, one of the best resort pools at Walt Disney World.
If dining options are important, deluxe resorts often have multiple restaurants, including fine dining experiences like California Grill at the Contemporary Resort or Jiko – The Cooking Place at Animal Kingdom Lodge.

Final Thoughts: Find Your Perfect Disney Resort
Walt Disney World offers an incredible variety of resorts to match every budget and preference. By answering these five questions, you can narrow down your options and find the resort that best aligns with your vacation goals.
Whether you’re looking for proximity to a specific park, convenient transportation, or luxurious amenities, there’s a Disney Resort waiting to make your trip unforgettable. Remember, no matter which resort you choose, the magic of Disney will surround you every step of the way.