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5 Key Questions to Help You Choose the Perfect Disney Resort

With over 25 Disney Resorts on the property, picking the right one for your Walt Disney World vacation can feel overwhelming. Each resort offers unique pricing, amenities, and locations, which means there’s something for every family’s needs. To help simplify this decision, we’ve outlined five important factors to consider when choosing a Disney Resort so you can make the best choice for a magical stay.


5. Set Your Budget First

The first step in choosing a Disney Resort is determining your budget. With options ranging from Value Resorts to Deluxe accommodations, Disney Resorts are categorized to offer something for every price point. Here’s a quick overview:

  • Value Resorts: These budget-friendly choices include the All-Star Resorts, Pop Century, and Art of Animation. They offer great value, fun themes, and essential amenities.
  • Moderate Resorts: These mid-priced resorts, including Disney’s Caribbean Beach, Disney’s Coronado Springs, and Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside and French Quarter, provide a blend of comfort and additional amenities like themed pools with slides.
  • Deluxe Resorts: These high-end options, such as Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Disney’s Polynesian, Disney’s Beach and Yacht Club, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, offer top-tier amenities, upscale dining, and unique experiences.

A large, white Disney Deluxe Resort with multiple buildings and turrets stretches along the shoreline under a cloudy sky. A boat is docked at a pier near the entrance, reminiscent of classic Walt Disney World charm. Green grass and trees surround the water in the foreground.

Decide on a budget before you start looking, as this will help narrow down your options and save you time. Your budget will be a key factor in deciding whether to stay in a Value, Moderate, or Deluxe Resort.


4. Consider the Size of Your Travel Party

Once you’ve set a budget, think about who will be joining you on this adventure. Are you traveling with a family of four, or will grandparents or additional family members be joining? The size and layout of your group will affect the type of room or suite you’ll need.

  • Groups of Four or Fewer: You’ll have access to most Disney Resorts, as standard rooms at many Value, Moderate, and Deluxe Resorts accommodate four guests comfortably.
  • Groups of Five or More: Larger groups will need specific accommodations. Options include Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside and Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, which both offer rooms with “5th sleeper” configurations. Art of Animation and All-Star Music provide family suites with extra space, and Disney’s Deluxe Villas offer 1, 2, and 3-bedroom options for families needing more room.

For those traveling with extended family, look into the availability of suites or book multiple rooms within the same resort to ensure everyone has a comfortable stay.


3. Location, Location, Location

Disney Resorts are located near each of the four theme parks, making it easy to find a resort with convenient access to the parks you plan to visit most. Here’s a quick guide:

  • Magic Kingdom Area: Disney’s Contemporary, Disney’s Polynesian, and Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa offer easy monorail access to Magic Kingdom, which is ideal if you plan to end most of your nights watching fireworks at the castle.
  • EPCOT and Hollywood Studios Area: Disney’s BoardWalk Inn, Disney’s Yacht Club, and Disney’s Beach Club Resorts are all within walking distance or a short boat ride from EPCOT and Hollywood Studios.
  • Animal Kingdom Area: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge immerses guests in the savanna experience, making it a one-of-a-kind choice for those who love wildlife and proximity to Animal Kingdom.
A person wearing a pink dress and pink Mickey Mouse ears stands on a sandy beach by a lake, facing away. In the distance, there are colorful buildings and a boat on the water near a Disney Deluxe Resort. The sky is cloudy, and there's greenery on the left side of the image.
Credit: V Mills

Selecting a resort near the parks you plan to frequent will save time on transportation and allow for more flexibility, especially if you want to take midday breaks.


2. Prioritize Amenities That Matter to You

Every Disney Resort offers its own unique amenities, so think about what’s important to you. Are you hoping for a resort with a relaxing spa, a variety of dining options, or an exciting pool area? Here are a few amenities to consider:

  • Pools: While all resorts have themed pools, Moderate and Deluxe Resorts include features like slides and hot tubs. Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts are especially known for Stormalong Bay, a water park-like pool area.
  • Dining Options: Deluxe and Moderate Resorts offer sit-down dining options, while Value Resorts focus more on quick-service food courts. If dining is a priority, consider Deluxe Resorts with signature restaurants or themed dining experiences.
  • Fitness and Recreation: Some resorts offer fitness centers, jogging trails, and even tennis courts. If you plan to exercise during your stay, check which resorts provide these facilities.

Knowing which amenities matter most will make it easier to choose a resort that aligns with your needs and preferences.


1. Follow Your Personal Preference for Theme and Atmosphere

Last but not least, consider your personal preference. Each Disney Resort is uniquely themed, from the vibrant, larger-than-life decor at Value Resorts like Art of Animation to the elegant, Victorian-inspired Grand Floridian. Choose a theme that resonates with you and your family.

D23 Grand Floridian Resort Spa
Credit: D23

Disney Resorts are designed to make your stay magical, no matter where you choose. Whether you’re drawn to the African savanna at Animal Kingdom Lodge, the tropical paradise of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, or the charming nostalgia of Disney’s Pop Century, the resort’s theme will be a big part of your experience. Trust your instincts, and pick a resort that feels right for your dream Disney vacation.


Choosing a Disney Resort is an exciting part of planning your trip. By setting a budget, considering your travel party’s needs, thinking about location, prioritizing amenities, and picking a theme you love, you’re sure to find the perfect Disney Resort for your family.

And remember—no matter which resort you choose, Disney magic is always included!

Jennifer Retzlaff

Jennifer became a lifelong Disney fan during her first trip to Walt Disney World in 6th grade. From that moment, Disney became a big part of her life. She quickly started to introduce her love of Disney to her family with a Disney honeymoon and then family trips when her youngest was 18 months old. She loves the magic that Disney brings to people through theme parks, cruises, and adventures. As a teacher, she tries to bring Disney magic into her classroom to help kids believe that “If You Can Dream It, You Can Do It.” She is also part of the Magic Vacation Planner team as a personal travel advisor. With this team, she can now help others plan magical vacations. She loves bringing her love to Disney to readers with How to Disney.

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