Walt Disney World offers a vast selection of Resorts, each catering to different budgets, preferences, and experiences. With so many options, finding the right Disney Resort for your family can feel overwhelming.
At How to Disney, we love exploring the many Resorts Disney offers. However, we also have some surprising opinions that might challenge popular beliefs. While these are just opinions, they might help you make the best decision for your next magical stay!
1. Pop Century Is One of Disney’s Best Resorts
Many Guests assume that Value Resorts mean compromising on quality, but Disney’s Pop Century Resort proves that affordability doesn’t have to come at the cost of experience. In fact, we’d argue it’s one of the best places to stay in all of Walt Disney World. Here’s why:
Affordability Meets Convenience
Pop Century is one of the most budget-friendly options on Disney property, but it still delivers on charm, comfort, and convenience. The rooms are smartly designed with features like a Murphy bed that folds up to maximize space during the day. It’s a great blend of functionality and style.
Immersive and Nostalgic Theming
From oversized yo-yos and Rubik’s cubes to vibrant colors and decade-themed sections, the resort celebrates pop culture from the ‘50s through the ‘90s. It’s playful, eye-catching, and totally Instagram-worthy.
Skyliner Access is a Game-Changer
One of Pop Century’s biggest perks is its direct access to the Disney Skyliner. This gondola system provides a breezy, scenic ride to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, no need to wait for a bus. It also makes it easy to explore nearby resorts like Disney’s Riviera Resort and Caribbean Beach Resort for dining, drinks, or just a change of scenery.
2. Skyliner Resorts Are Better Than Monorail Resorts
Many Disney fans dream of staying at one of Disney’s Monorail Resorts: Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, Disney’s Contemporary Resort, or Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. While these Resorts are undeniably luxurious, we believe Skyliner Resorts offers a better overall experience.
Disney’s Skyliner has quickly become one of the most beloved transportation options at Walt Disney World for its convenience, comfort, and just the right touch of Disney magic. Compared to other options like buses or even the iconic monorail, the Skyliner offers several key advantages that make it a favorite for many Guests.
Continuous Loading Means Shorter Waits
Unlike the monorail, which operates in timed cycles and can often create long lines during peak hours, the Skyliner features a continuously loading system. Gondolas are always in motion, allowing Guests to board in a steady, efficient flow. This system dramatically reduces wait times, especially at the start and end of the day, and helps Guests spend more time enjoying the parks and less time waiting for transportation.
Direct Access to EPCOT’s International Gateway
Another major advantage of the Skyliner is that it delivers Guests directly to EPCOT’s International Gateway, an entrance located between the France and United Kingdom pavilions in World Showcase. This entrance is typically much less crowded than the park’s main gate, making it a faster and more relaxed way to start your day.
For Guests staying at Skyliner-connected resorts like Pop Century, this means they can breeze into EPCOT without the long lines or bottlenecks often found at the front entrance.
It’s especially useful during rope drop because the International Gateway drops Guests closer to attractions like Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, and they can reach these high-demand rides before many Guests entering from the main gate even arrive at the area. It’s a small but significant strategic edge that savvy Disney visitors absolutely love.
A Smoother Exit After Fireworks
At the end of a park day, particularly after the nighttime shows, transportation can become a bit of a bottleneck. Monorail stations often fill quickly, and lines can move slowly due to the loading process. In contrast, the Skyliner’s continuous movement and fast turnaround help ease the crowd flow. Guests can board quickly and enjoy a relaxing aerial ride back to their resort, avoiding the long waits and packed buses that can come with other transportation options.
3. Gran Destino Tower Feels Like a Deluxe Resort
Although Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is classified as a Moderate Resort, the Gran Destino Tower delivers an experience that rivals many of Disney’s Deluxe Resorts. From its sophisticated architecture to its upscale dining and amenities, this stunning tower brings elevated luxury at a surprisingly accessible price point.
Elegant Design and Modern Amenities
Gran Destino Tower sets itself apart when you enter its grand, artfully designed lobby. Inspired by Spanish architecture and Salvador Dalí’s works, the space features intricate patterns, rich textures, and dramatic lighting that create an atmosphere of elegance and modernity.
The guest rooms continue this theme, offering sleek furnishings, spacious layouts, and thoughtful touches like rainfall showers, large smart TVs, and USB ports integrated into the furniture. The attention to detail and the quality of materials are far beyond what you might expect from a Moderate Resort.
Spectacular Dining Options
Food lovers will find themselves right at home in Gran Destino Tower. At the top of the tower is Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood, a signature dining experience with a stunning rooftop setting. Guests can enjoy expertly prepared dishes influenced by Spanish cuisine while soaking in panoramic views of the Walt Disney World skyline.
Just one floor below is the Dahlia Lounge, a stylish and sophisticated space perfect for sipping craft cocktails while watching the sun set over EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
For something more casual but equally delightful, Barcelona Lounge offers a chic and airy environment on the ground floor. Mornings begin with specialty coffees and Spanish-inspired pastries, while evenings transition into a relaxing lounge vibe with wines, small bites, and creative cocktails. Each venue is thoughtfully designed, enhancing the resort’s overall sense of refinement.
Luxury at a Moderate Price
Perhaps the most appealing aspect of Gran Destino Tower is the value it offers. While the setting and services feel akin to those at Deluxe Resorts, the price tag remains in the Moderate category. Guests enjoy many of the same perks, such as upscale accommodations, immersive theming, and quality dining, without paying premium Deluxe Resort prices. For travelers seeking a touch of luxury without stretching their budget, Gran Destino Tower strikes an ideal balance between elegance and affordability.
4. Stormalong Bay Isn’t the Best Pool at Disney World
Stormalong Bay at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts is often hailed as the crown jewel of Disney pools, and it’s easy to see why. With a sprawling sand-bottom swimming area, a lazy river, and one of the most thrilling water slides on property, it’s no surprise that this pool complex earns rave reviews.
However, despite its impressive features, it may not be ideal for every family. In fact, some of its most talked-about elements can pose challenges for Guests looking for a more manageable or relaxing pool experience.
A Complicated Layout
One of Stormalong Bay’s most significant drawbacks is its sheer size and complex layout. Unlike most resort pools, which are centralized and easy to navigate, Stormalong Bay feels more like a mini water park.
This can make supervision challenging for families with young children. Parents may constantly move to keep their kids in sight, and coordinating with others in the group can become more difficult than expected. The pool’s segmented design, while visually appealing, can create blind spots and confusion, especially for first-time visitors.
A Lazy River That’s Not Exactly Relaxing
The lazy river at Stormalong Bay is unique in that portions of it are unexpectedly deep, up to eight feet in some areas. While this might be fun for confident swimmers, it can be daunting for those who prefer to float without worry or for families with younger kids.
It requires more effort and attention than a traditional lazy river, which tends to be shallow and slow-moving. Instead of drifting peacefully, many Guests find themselves treading water or adjusting frequently to stay comfortable, which somewhat defeats the purpose of a relaxing float.
Water Slide Access Creates Added Stress
Another point of concern is the location of the pool’s water slide entrance. While fun and highly rated, the slide is accessible only by exiting the gated pool area and crossing a public walkway to reach the starting point on a shipwreck-themed structure.
While this design is visually stunning and certainly adds to the nautical theme, it’s not the most convenient or secure option for families. Parents with smaller children may feel uneasy allowing them to cross the walkway alone, turning what should be a carefree and relaxing pool experience into a source of unnecessary stress.
Alternative Pools That Are Just as Great (or Better!)
- Fuentes del Morro Pool (Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort):
- Pirate-themed with water cannons and slides.
- Easily manageable for parents.
- The Dig Site Pool (Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort):
- Features the most enormous hot tub on Disney property.
- Stunning Mayan Pyramid waterfall.
- Big Blue Pool (Disney’s Art of Animation Resort):
- The largest Resort pool at Disney World.
- Nemo-themed fun with underwater speakers playing Disney music.
While Stormalong Bay remains a highlight for some, many families may find these alternative pools more enjoyable.
5. Disney Hotels are NOT Only a Place to Sleep
Let’s be real, if all you need is a bed, a basic off-property hotel will do the trick (and for less). But Disney Resorts? They’re so much more than a place to crash after a long park day. They’re an extension of the magic.
If you use the room only to sleep, you’re missing half the fun, and many of these experiences don’t cost extra. Here are some Disney resort-only experiences you’ll love:
Campfires
Many Disney resorts host free nightly campfires complete with marshmallow roasting. It’s a cozy, low-key way to unwind with the family, and yes, it’s included.
Character Dining
Why wait in line at the parks when you can meet your favorites over breakfast (or dinner)? Resorts like the Contemporary, Grand Floridian, and Polynesian offer iconic dining with Mickey and friends, without the park ticket.
Magical Extras
Guests who book a Disney vacation package get bonus perks and free activities around Disney Springs and beyond. Think mini golf at Fantasia Gardens and free entrance to sporting events at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.
Fun water experiences
Disney hotel pools are more than just a place to swim. At Coronado Springs, you’ll find a massive Mayan pyramid slide and one of the largest hot tubs on property. Other resorts feature pirate ships, beaches, and splash zones, all themed to perfection. As an added bonus, guests get free admission to a Disney water park on check-in day.
Bottom line? Disney Resorts are a destination in themselves. Treat them like more than a bed and you’ll unlock a whole new layer of magic, without even setting foot in the parks.
Choosing the Right Disney Resort for Your Family
With so many incredible Disney Resorts to choose from, finding the right one really depends on what matters most to your family. Start by considering your budget—Value Resorts offer great savings, while Deluxe Resorts provide more luxurious experiences.
Transportation can also be a big factor. If quick park access is a priority, Skyliner Resorts make getting to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios easy, while Monorail Resorts are perfect for Magic Kingdom visits.
Room size may be important too, especially for larger families. Suites at Art of Animation or Deluxe Villas offer the extra space and comfort you might need. And of course, dining matters. If you’re looking for elevated cuisine, resorts like Disney’s Riviera Resort or Gran Destino Tower deliver exceptional options, while Value Resorts tend to focus on quick-service meals.
Ultimately, the best Disney Resort is the one that fits your family’s needs, not just the one with the most hype. Disney magic is always part of the journey, no matter where you stay.
