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Why Disney’s Deluxe Resorts Deliver Unmatched Magic

When planning a Walt Disney World vacation, one of the biggest decisions is where to stay. With so many options, choosing the perfect resort can shape your Disney experience. Walt Disney World offers three resort categories: Value, Moderate, and Deluxe. While Deluxe Resorts come with a higher price tag, they deliver a level of magic, luxury, and convenience unmatched by other options.

If you’re considering a Deluxe Resort for your next trip, let’s dive into what makes these accommodations so special.


What Are Walt Disney World Deluxe Resorts?

Deluxe Resorts offer some of the best amenities, dining, and proximity to the parks. These resorts include:

  • Magic Kingdom Area: Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Disney’s Contemporary Resort, and Disney’s Wilderness Lodge.
  • EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios Area: Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, Disney’s Beach Club Resort, Disney’s BoardWalk Inn, and Disney’s Riviera Resort.
  • Animal Kingdom Area: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, offering breathtaking views of exotic animals.

Each resort has a unique theme, luxurious accommodations, and exclusive perks, making them ideal for families and Disney enthusiasts alike.

A luxurious resort with multiple floors, lit balconies, surrounded by palm trees and a serene pool area during twilight, reflecting a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Credit: Disney

Proximity to the Parks

One of the main reasons to choose a Deluxe Resort is the unbeatable location. These resorts are designed to keep you close to the magic, offering multiple transportation options.

  • Magic Kingdom Area: Resorts like Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, and Disney’s Contemporary Resort offer monorail access and even walking paths to Magic Kingdom.
  • EPCOT and Hollywood Studios Area: The resorts around Crescent Lake—Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, Disney’s Beach Club Resort, and Disney’s BoardWalk Inn—provide easy access to both EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios by foot, boat, or Skyliner gondola.
  • Disney’s Riviera Resort: The Skyliner makes traveling to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios a breeze.
  • Animal Kingdom Lodge: While slightly further from other parks, this resort offers unparalleled views of animals and a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle.

Staying close to the parks means less time commuting and more time enjoying the magic.


Extended Evening Hours

Guests staying at a Deluxe Resort enjoy exclusive access to Extended Evening Hours. These allow entry into select parks—usually EPCOT and Magic Kingdom—after regular park hours. With reduced crowds, you can enjoy top attractions like Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind or Happily Ever After fireworks without long wait times.

During peak seasons, Extended Evening Hours are a fantastic way to beat the heat and make the most of your time at Walt Disney World.

A vibrant display of fireworks and colorful lights illuminates a castle at night, crafting a "Happily Ever After" scene. Bright beams and bursts of color create a magical atmosphere, with the castle at the center surrounded by vivid patterns and glowing effects.
Credit: Disney

Exceptional Dining Options

Dining is a highlight at Deluxe Resorts, offering some of the best culinary experiences on Disney property.

  • Signature Dining: Iconic restaurants like California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, ‘Ohana at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, and Jiko at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge provide unforgettable meals with spectacular views.
  • Casual Dining: Quick-service options like Captain Cook’s (Polynesian Village Resort) and Contempo Café (Contemporary Resort) deliver delicious meals for families on the go.
  • Top Lounges: Sip on handcrafted cocktails at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto (Polynesian) or the elegant Enchanted Rose (Grand Floridian).

For foodies, staying at a Deluxe Resort ensures that incredible dining experiences are just steps away.


Pools That Feel Like a Vacation Within a Vacation

The pools at Deluxe Resorts are a step above, offering fun for all ages.

  • Stormalong Bay: Located at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts, this pool complex features a lazy river, sand-bottom area, and an incredible waterslide shaped like a shipwreck.
  • Animal Kingdom Lodge Pools: Enjoy two stunning pools surrounded by lush landscapes and African-inspired architecture.
  • New Contemporary Pool: Recently renovated, this sleek pool is perfect for families.

Most Deluxe Resorts also feature quiet pools for those seeking a peaceful retreat. No matter where you stay, the pools add an extra layer of relaxation to your Disney trip.


Themed Rooms and Incredible Views

Deluxe Resorts offer spacious rooms with immersive themes and incredible views. From Polynesian-inspired bungalows overlooking the Seven Seas Lagoon to Savannah-view rooms at Animal Kingdom Lodge, these resorts elevate your stay with Disney’s signature attention to detail.


Additional Perks of Staying Deluxe

  1. Convenience: With amenities like in-room dining and concierge services, Deluxe Resorts cater to every need.
  2. Recreation: Enjoy extras like motorized boat rentals, jogging trails, and even campfire activities.
  3. Immersive Theming: Each resort’s design transports you to a different world, whether it’s the Victorian elegance of the Grand Floridian or the rustic charm of Wilderness Lodge.
A scenic view of a rustic lodge-style building with a green roof, surrounded by trees. In the foreground, a gentle waterfall cascades over rocks into a small pond, creating a tranquil natural setting—perfect for relaxing at Disney's enchanting escape.
Credit: Disney

Why Choose a Deluxe Resort?

While Deluxe Resorts come at a higher price point, the benefits they offer—prime locations, exclusive perks like Extended Evening Hours, exceptional dining, and luxurious amenities—make them well worth it for many Guests. Whether you’re visiting Walt Disney World for the first time or as a seasoned Disney fan, these resorts promise an unforgettable stay filled with magic and relaxation.

Make your next Disney vacation extra special by booking a Deluxe Resort. With everything they offer, you’ll never want to stay anywhere else!

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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