Planning a Walt Disney World vacation is filled with exciting decisions, and choosing the perfect Disney Resort hotel is one of the most important. Your resort serves as your home away from home—a place to relax, recharge, and soak up the magic after fun-filled days in the parks. Whether you’re dreaming of Deluxe accommodations or seeking a budget-friendly Value resort, your choice of hotel will shape your Disney experience.
While every Disney Resort has its unique charm, some hotels may feel like a “one-and-done” experience for many guests. If you’re considering staying at a new Disney property, we’ve compiled a guide to resorts you might visit once and the alternatives worth exploring next time.
Understanding Disney Resort Categories
Disney Resort hotels are divided into three categories: Value, Moderate, and Deluxe. Each offers a different level of comfort, theming, and amenities to suit various preferences and budgets.
- Value Resorts: Budget-friendly and vibrant, Value Resorts like Disney’s Pop Century Resort feature fun Disney theming and basic amenities. They’re perfect for families who plan to spend most of their time in the parks.
- Moderate Resorts: For a blend of affordability and comfort, Moderate Resorts like Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort provide larger rooms, additional amenities, and immersive themes.
- Deluxe Resorts: Top-tier luxury awaits at Deluxe Resorts like Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, which boast spacious rooms, gourmet dining, and proximity to parks.
For families seeking more space, many Deluxe Resorts also include Disney Vacation Club accommodations, offering studios and villas with extra amenities.
Skip or Stay: A Look at Disney’s Deluxe Resorts
Not all Deluxe Resorts will feel like a must-repeat experience. Here’s a breakdown of resorts some guests consider “one-time stays” and alternatives that might suit your next trip.
Skip: Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Why It’s Iconic:
Disney’s Contemporary Resort is one of the original Walt Disney World hotels. With its sleek, modern design, Monorail access, and proximity to Magic Kingdom, it remains a beloved classic. Guests can dine at top-tier restaurants like California Grill or enjoy views of Magic Kingdom fireworks.
Why You Might Skip It Next Time:
- Cost: One of Disney’s most expensive resorts, rates can climb significantly.
- Room Location: Not all rooms are in the iconic A-frame tower—Garden Wing rooms, while charming, miss the Monorail ambiance.
- Transportation Challenges: Getting to EPCOT requires a Monorail transfer at the Transportation & Ticket Center, which can be inconvenient during busy times.
- Shared Buses: Guests traveling to Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, or Disney Springs may experience longer travel times due to shared bus routes.
- Theming: Its sleek, modern design lacks the immersive magic some guests seek.
Alternative: Disney’s Riviera Resort
Experience European elegance at Disney’s Riviera Resort, a Disney Vacation Club property with stylish rooms, a rooftop dining venue (Topolino’s Terrace), and Skyliner access to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. Riviera combines luxury with convenience at a slightly lower price point than the Contemporary.
Skip: Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Why It’s Luxurious:
Known as Disney’s crown jewel, the Grand Floridian blends Victorian elegance with modern amenities. Guests enjoy fine dining, a full-service spa, and stunning views of Happily Ever After fireworks from the Monorail loop.
Why You Might Skip It Next Time:
- High Price Point: As Disney’s most expensive resort, the cost may not justify the experience for some, particularly if most of your time is spent in the parks.
- Travel Time: Reaching other parks like Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom can be time-consuming.
- EPCOT Access: Like the Contemporary, Monorail trips to EPCOT require a line transfer.
- Shared Buses: Long waits for shared bus services can detract from the experience.
Alternative: Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
Located near EPCOT, the Yacht Club offers elegant New England theming, spacious rooms, and easy access to two parks—EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. Plus, the resort features Stormalong Bay, a water park-style pool area that’s perfect for families. It’s luxurious but more centrally located than the Grand Floridian.
Skip: Disney’s Beach Club Resort
Why It’s Popular:
Beach Club is beloved for its laid-back seaside vibe, proximity to EPCOT, and access to Stormalong Bay, shared with Yacht Club. Its location near the International Gateway entrance to EPCOT makes it a convenient option for festival-goers.
Why You Might Skip It Next Time:
- Theming: While charming, the decor may not feel as immersive or grand as other Deluxe resorts.
- Cost: Similar in price to Yacht Club, some guests feel the offerings don’t justify the expense.
- Dated Rooms: Some guests find the room decor less modern compared to newer resorts.
Alternative: Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
For vibrant theming and quick access to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios, consider Disney’s BoardWalk Inn. With its Atlantic City-inspired charm, lively entertainment, and unique dining options, BoardWalk Inn offers a distinctive experience often at a more affordable price than Beach Club.
Additional Tips for Choosing Your Disney Resort
- Consider Transportation Options: Resorts with Monorail or Skyliner access make park-hopping a breeze and can save time during busy seasons.
- Plan for Your Park Priorities: If Magic Kingdom is your main focus, a Monorail resort may be worth the splurge. For EPCOT or Hollywood Studios fans, Crescent Lake resorts like Yacht Club or BoardWalk Inn are ideal.
- Set Your Budget: While Deluxe Resorts offer luxury, Value and Moderate resorts can provide excellent Disney magic at a fraction of the cost.
- Factor in Dining: Resorts like Riviera and BoardWalk Inn offer exceptional dining options, so you can enjoy world-class meals without leaving your hotel.
The Perfect Resort Awaits
Choosing a Disney Resort hotel is all about balancing your priorities—whether it’s luxury, convenience, or budget-friendly fun. While some resorts might feel like a “one-and-done” experience, Disney’s vast array of options ensures there’s always something new to explore. With these alternatives in mind, your next stay might just become your favorite Disney memory.
Which Disney Resort hotel will you choose for your next vacation? Share your favorites in the comments below!
