Planning a Walt Disney World vacation is an exciting experience, but with so many incredible resort options, choosing where to stay can feel overwhelming. Your Disney resort isn’t just a place to sleep—it’s an essential part of the magical Disney experience. From immersive theming and unique dining to the convenience of transportation and unforgettable amenities, the right resort can elevate your trip to a whole new level.
Whether you’re looking for luxury, a budget-friendly stay, or something in between, Disney’s resorts offer something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll break down the top three Walt Disney World resorts, each offering its own unique perks and experiences.
Disney Resort Categories
Before we dive into our top picks, it’s important to understand Disney’s resort categories. Walt Disney World resorts fall into three main categories:
- Value Resorts: The most budget-friendly options, these resorts are known for their large, fun themes and basic amenities. They’re perfect for families looking to stay on property without breaking the bank.
- Moderate Resorts: These offer a blend of affordability and enhanced features, like more dining options, themed pools, and slightly larger rooms.
- Deluxe Resorts: The ultimate in Disney luxury, these resorts boast top-notch amenities, prime locations near the parks, and more spacious accommodations. They’re ideal for guests seeking a more upscale experience.
Now, let’s take a look at our top three resorts that you should consider for your Walt Disney World vacation.
1. Pop Century Resort – Value Resort
Why You Should Stay Here:
If you’re searching for a fun, affordable option without sacrificing that special Disney touch, Pop Century Resort is one of the best value resorts to stay at. With a vibrant, retro-themed atmosphere that celebrates pop culture from the 1950s through the 1990s, this resort is perfect for families and Disney fans of all ages.
Key Perks:
- Affordable Pricing: As a value resort, Pop Century is one of the most budget-friendly options on Disney property, allowing you to enjoy all the perks of staying in the magic while keeping costs in check.
- Updated Rooms: The recently renovated rooms at Pop Century are sleek, comfortable, and practical. Featuring hardwood floors, plenty of storage, and a fold-down Murphy bed that doubles as a table during the day, the rooms offer plenty of space for families to spread out.
- Skyliner Access: One of the best features of Pop Century is its access to the Disney Skyliner, a gondola transportation system that connects guests to both EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The Skyliner offers not only convenience but also a scenic and fun way to travel between parks.
- Family-Friendly Fun: The resort has three pools, including the iconic Hippy Dippy Pool. The theming throughout the property—from giant bowling pins to 8-track tapes—adds a playful touch to your stay.
For families looking to stretch their budget while staying immersed in Disney magic, Pop Century offers a perfect combination of affordability, convenience, and fun.
2. Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort – Moderate Resort
Why You Should Stay Here:
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is one of the best moderate resorts on Disney property, offering a touch of luxury without the deluxe price tag. Recently transformed with the addition of the stunning Gran Destino Tower, this resort provides a blend of Spanish, Mexican, and Southwestern influences, giving it a unique and upscale feel.
Key Perks:
- Gran Destino Tower: The highlight of Coronado Springs is the Gran Destino Tower, a beautiful addition that offers gorgeous rooms, a stunning lobby, and easy access to dining and transportation. The tower brings a touch of deluxe elegance to the resort, making it a standout in the moderate category.
- World-Class Dining: Coronado Springs boasts some of the best dining options of any moderate resort. Three Bridges Bar & Grill, located on the water, is a favorite among guests for its relaxed atmosphere and delicious menu. For an upscale experience, Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood offers an amazing rooftop dining experience with views of the Disney parks.
- The Dig Site Pool: The Dig Site Pool area is one of the most exciting pool complexes at Walt Disney World. Featuring a massive Mayan pyramid, a 123-foot-long waterslide, and a hot tub, it’s perfect for families looking to unwind and have fun during their stay.
Coronado Springs combines comfort, luxury, and fun, making it a perfect choice for guests seeking a moderate resort with deluxe features.
3. Disney’s Wilderness Lodge – Deluxe Resort
Why You Should Stay Here:
If you’re looking for a deluxe resort that offers an immersive experience, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is the place to be. Nestled among the trees and inspired by the grandeur of the American Pacific Northwest, Wilderness Lodge provides a peaceful retreat just a stone’s throw away from the excitement of Magic Kingdom.
Key Perks:
- Proximity to Magic Kingdom: One of the top reasons to stay at Wilderness Lodge is its location. Just a short boat ride away from Magic Kingdom, this resort gives you easy access to the park without the hustle and bustle of being right in the middle of the action.
- Rustic Beauty: The resort’s theming is breathtaking, with a massive fireplace in the lobby, towering pine trees, and bubbling geysers. The natural beauty of the resort makes it a relaxing oasis, perfect for guests who want a peaceful escape after a busy day at the parks.
- Fantastic Dining: Wilderness Lodge features some fantastic dining options, including Whispering Canyon Café, a lively all-you-care-to-enjoy restaurant known for its interactive and fun-loving atmosphere. For a more elegant experience, Artist Point offers a character dining experience featuring Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, making it a favorite among families.
- Pools and Recreation: The Copper Creek Springs Pool is a beautiful, thematically-rich pool complete with waterfalls and a 67-foot waterslide. There’s also a more tranquil pool for those looking to relax. Kids will love the interactive play area, and adults can enjoy the hot tubs and peaceful walking paths around the resort.
Wilderness Lodge offers a perfect blend of luxury, theming, and proximity to Magic Kingdom, making it a must-stay for families and couples alike.
Walt Disney World has an array of incredible resorts to choose from, but these three offer something extra special. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly stay with great amenities, a moderate resort with a touch of luxury, or a deluxe experience with serene surroundings, Pop Century, Disney’s Coronado Springs, and Disney’s Wilderness Lodge have you covered.
No matter where you stay, each of these resorts delivers that unique Disney magic, helping to make your vacation unforgettable. Book your stay early to secure your spot at one of these top resorts and get ready to enjoy all that Walt Disney World has to offer!
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Have you stayed at one of these resorts? Share your experience in the comments below!
