When planning your Walt Disney World vacation, one of the biggest decisions you’ll make is where to stay.
Disney offers three main resort categories—Value, Moderate, and Deluxe—each with its own level of comfort, pricing, amenities, and magical theming.
Whether you’re on a budget, looking for mid-range options, or ready to splurge, there’s a resort that fits your needs.
Let’s explore the key differences so you can make the best choice for your Disney getaway.
What Are Value Resorts?
Quick Tip for Returning Guests:
If you’ve stayed at a Value Resort before, look for seasonal updates to food court menus and refreshed room decor, especially at Pop Century and All-Star Movies. These resorts are often the first to receive smaller upgrades across the Value tier.
Disney’s Value Resorts are perfect for families who want to experience the magic without breaking the bank.
These resorts feature bright, playful themes, larger-than-life character decor, and fun amenities.
Key Features:
- Budget-friendly pricing: Typically range from $150 to $400 per night.
- Room size: Around 260 sq ft; some suites at Art of Animation can accommodate up to six people.
- Theming: Heavily Disney-inspired with bold, colorful motifs.
- Room access: Outdoor-facing corridors.
- Pools and recreation:
- Themed pools (no water slides).
- Splash areas and playgrounds.
- Movies Under the Stars.
- Dining: Food courts only—quick and easy service with various kid-friendly options.
- Transportation:
- Mostly bus service.
- Pop Century and Art of Animation also offer Disney Skyliner access.
Best For:
Families with young children or budget-conscious travelers who plan to spend most of their time in the parks rather than at the resort.
What Are Moderate Resorts?
Disney’s Moderate Resorts offer a step up in space, amenities, and ambiance while still being relatively affordable.
The theming is more refined, often inspired by regions such as the Caribbean or the American South.
Key Features:
- Pricing: Generally $250 to $540 per night, with discounts available during certain seasons.
- Room size: About 300 sq ft with added touches like dual sinks and the ability to sleep up to five guests.
- Theming: Subtler, regionally inspired décor.
- Room access: Outdoor corridors (similar to Value Resorts).
- Pools and recreation:
- Feature pools with water slides.
- Quiet pools for relaxation.
- Bike rentals, playgrounds, and more.
- Dining:
- Food courts.
- One table-service restaurant per resort.
- Transportation:
- Bus service to all parks.
- Caribbean Beach Resort includes Skyliner access.
- Port Orleans Resort offers boat rides to Disney Springs.
Best For:
Guests who want a balance between affordability and upgraded experiences with more dining and recreation options.
What Are Deluxe Resorts?
Deluxe Resorts are Disney’s most luxurious accommodations. These resorts are known for their prime locations, top-tier dining, and immersive theming. With larger rooms and superior amenities, they offer an elevated Disney experience.
Key Features:
- Pricing: Typically $600 and up per night; discounts of 20–35% are often available during select seasons.
- Room size: Starting around 344 sq ft; suites and villas available for larger families.
- Theming: Immersive and elegant, ranging from African safaris to Victorian grandeur.
- Room access: Indoor, climate-controlled hallways.
- Pools and recreation:
- Multiple pools, often with water slides and hot tubs.
- Fitness centers, spas, and extensive recreational offerings.
- Dining:
- Multiple dining options including quick service, table service, character meals, and signature dining (e.g., ‘Ohana, California Grill).
- Character dining experiences are available at select resorts.
- Transportation:
- Monorail, boats, buses, walking paths, and Skyliner access, depending on location.
- Exclusive Perks:
- Extended Evening Hours at select parks.
Best For:
Families celebrating a special occasion or guests who want the convenience, luxury, and perks of staying closest to the magic.
How to Choose the Right Resort Category
Note for Returning Guests:
Some Deluxe and Moderate resorts have recently undergone refurbishments, including updated furnishings and refreshed pool areas. Be sure to check current photos and guest reviews to see if your favorite resort has received a refresh since your last visit.
Each resort category offers something unique.
Here’s a quick side-by-side comparison to help you decide:
| Feature | Value Resorts | Moderate Resorts | Deluxe Resorts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nightly Rate | ~$150–$225 | ~$250–$540 | $600+ |
| Room Size | ~260 sq ft | ~300 sq ft | 344 sq ft and up |
| Room Access | Outdoor corridors | Outdoor corridors | Indoor hallways |
| Pools | Themed (no slides) | Themed + water slides | Multiple + hot tubs |
| Dining Options | Food court only | Food court + 1 table-service | Multiple, incl. signature |
| Transportation | Bus, some Skyliner | Bus, Skyliner, boats | Monorail, boat, walk, Skyliner |
| Ideal For | Budget travelers | Balanced value & comfort | Luxury and location seekers |
Final Thoughts
Disney resort offerings and pricing are always evolving. We regularly update this guide to reflect the latest changes, seasonal discounts, and guest perks.
Whether you’re drawn to the affordability of a Value Resort, the balanced offerings of a Moderate Resort, or the luxury and proximity of a Deluxe Resort, there’s a perfect Disney stay for every kind of traveler.
Taking the time to compare room sizes, transportation, theming, and dining options can ensure that your vacation is as magical and stress—free as possible.
Have you stayed at a Disney Resort before?
