Things to Look for When Comparing Disney’s Moderate Resorts

Choosing the perfect Disney Resort for your Walt Disney World vacation is a big decision! With so many options available, it can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry; we’re here to help you figure out which moderate resort will give you the best experience. Disney’s moderate resorts offer the perfect balance of themed magic, great amenities, and reasonable prices.

Today, we’ll dive into the four fantastic options: Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter, and Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside. Whether you’re looking for convenient transportation, fantastic pools, diverse dining, or comfortable rooms, this guide will break down what each resort has to offer to help you make the best choice for your magical stay!

Transportation

One of the most important factors when choosing your Disney resort is transportation. After all, no one wants to spend too much time getting to and from the parks when they could be riding Space Mountain or meeting Mickey! Let’s see how these resorts stack up.

Caribbean Beach Resort: Skyliner Hub Perks
When it comes to transportation, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort wins hands-down as the hub of the Disney Skyliner. This means guests have quick and easy access to both Disney’s Hollywood Studios and EPCOT via the Skyliner, which is not only efficient but offers a relaxing ride with some great views. Of course, buses are also available for travel to Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom.

Port Orleans Riverside & French Quarter
Staying at either Port Orleans Riverside or Port Orleans French Quarter comes with a fun bonus: boat transportation to Disney Springs! This scenic cruise is a fantastic way to wind down after a busy day in the parks and opens up a world of dining and shopping options at Disney Springs.

Both of these resorts offer bus transportation to all four parks but be mindful that Port Orleans Riverside is a larger resort, so buses may take longer to navigate internal stops.

Coronado Springs: Buses All the Way
If you’re staying at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, you’ll rely on buses to get you to the parks. While there are no Skyliner or boat options here, the resort’s central location means you’ll still have quick access to all four Disney theme parks. However, like Caribbean Beach and Riverside, Coronado Springs is quite spread out, so you may have to use internal buses to move around the resort itself.

Pools: Making a Splash

Next up: pools! After a long day exploring Magic Kingdom or trekking through Animal Kingdom, taking a dip in your resort’s pool is the perfect way to cool off and relax.

Caribbean Beach Resort
If you’re staying at Caribbean Beach Resort, prepare for a pirate adventure at the Fuentes del Morro Pool! This pirate-themed pool comes with water cannons, two waterslides, and a large splash area for kids. It’s one of the most interactive and kid-friendly pools on Disney property. Plus, there are several quieter pools located throughout the resort if you’re in the mood for a more relaxing swim.

Coronado Springs Resort
The Lost City of Cibola Pool at Coronado Springs is a showstopper featuring a Mayan pyramid and a massive 123-foot-long waterslide. The pool area, known as The Dig Site, is perfect for families with kids who want to splash around in the pool or the Explorer’s Playground. Adults will also appreciate the largest hot tub on Disney property, which can seat up to 22 people!

Port Orleans Riverside & French Quarter
Guests staying at Port Orleans Riverside and French Quarter have access to both resorts’ pools! This means double the fun! Riverside’s Ol’ Man Island pool has a rustic Louisiana bayou feel, complete with a fun waterslide and a whirlpool spa. Meanwhile, over at French Quarter, you’ll find the Doubloon Lagoon, which features a lively Mardi Gras theme and an alligator waterslide that’s sure to bring a smile to your face.

Both resorts also offer several quiet pools scattered around their grounds, perfect for a more peaceful swim.

Dining: Fueling Your Magical Day

When it comes to food, Disney’s moderate resorts offer a range of options, from quick bites to sit-down dining. But which resort has the best food?

Coronado Springs Resort
If dining options are high on your priority list, Coronado Springs Resort is your go-to. With multiple restaurants, bars, and lounges, this resort offers everything from quick-service meals to signature dining. El Mercado de Coronado serves up a variety of quick-service options, while Maya Grill and Three Bridges Bar & Grill provide delicious table-service meals. And don’t forget about Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood, the signature restaurant located at the top of the Gran Destino Tower, offering breathtaking views and incredible food.

For drinks, head to the Dahlia Lounge or Barcelona Lounge—both offer small plates and an impressive drink selection.

Caribbean Beach Resort
Caribbean Beach Resort also has some fantastic dining options with an island flair. Centertown Market is the go-to for quick service, offering Caribbean-inspired dishes in a fun, colorful setting. If you’re looking for a more leisurely meal, check out Sebastian’s Bistro, a table-service restaurant serving up delicious seafood and island flavors. And for a quick drink, the Banana Cabana Pool Bar is the perfect spot to grab a cocktail and relax by the pool.

Port Orleans Resorts
At Port Orleans Riverside, you’ll find hearty Southern-style comfort food at Boatwright’s Dining Hall, while the Riverside Mill Food Court offers quick-service meals with a variety of options. Over at French Quarter, the main attraction is the beignets at Scat Cat’s Club Café. You can’t leave the French Quarter without indulging in these delicious, powdered sugar-coated treats!

Both resorts also feature pool bars and lounges, perfect for a casual drink or snack after a day in the parks.

Rooms: Finding the Perfect Space

Now, let’s talk rooms! While most moderate resort rooms are similar in size and style, there are a few unique options worth noting.

Caribbean Beach Resort & Port Orleans Resorts
Caribbean Beach Resort and both Port Orleans Riverside and French Quarter offer 5th sleeper rooms, which come with two queen beds and a pull-down bed. These rooms are ideal for families of five or those needing an extra sleeping space for little ones. It’s a great way to accommodate larger groups without upgrading to a suite.

Coronado Springs Resort
At Coronado Springs, guests can opt to stay in the Gran Destino Tower, which features indoor hallways and a more upscale feel while still maintaining a moderate price point. The tower rooms offer stunning views and a sleek, modern design. For those wanting even more luxury, Coronado Springs also offers club-level rooms, the only moderate resort to do so.

Which Moderate Resort Is Best for You?

Choosing the right moderate resort at Walt Disney World comes down to your priorities. If transportation is your focus, the Skyliner access at Caribbean Beach Resort is unbeatable. Looking for incredible dining? Coronado Springs has more options than you’ll ever need. Want to relax in the pool? The Port Orleans Resorts offer the added bonus of shared pool access between Riverside and the French Quarter.

Whichever resort you choose, rest assured you’ll be surrounded by Disney magic, great amenities, and beautiful theming. Your Disney vacation will be unforgettable no matter which moderate resort you call home!

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