Disney World Hotels & Resorts at a Glance

A Disney Vacation How-To Guide from Build A Better Mouse Trip

Disney World Vacation Tips - Quick comparison of all the Disney World Resort hotels.

Hey there, fellow adventurer! Ready to dive into the captivating world of Walt Disney World Resort? Hold tight as we explore the official Disney hotels – from value-packed wonders to cozy moderates and lavish deluxe havens. In a nutshell, we've got all the need-to-knows: a peek into the value, moderate, and deluxe categories, along with quick hotel snapshots to help you narrow down your family's perfect stay. Just click on a hotel's name to unveil more juicy details and snapshots. Let's make those Disney dreams a reality! 

Exclusive Benefits of Staying at an On-Site Disney Resort

  • Early Theme Park Entry: Get in 30 minutes ahead of the general public every day at all four theme parks.

  • Extended Evening Theme Park Hours (Deluxe Only): Extend the fun at select theme parks on select nights.

  • Complimentary Transportation to the theme parks, water parks, Disney Springs, and more.

  • Free Parking at the resort and throughout Walt Disney World.

  • Up to 10-Day Dining Advantage: Make dining reservations for up to 10-days starting on the first day of eligibility, putting you a step ahead of off-site guests.

  • Early Access Individual Lightning Lane reservations: book at 7AM instead of at park opening.

  • Proximity: Everything is easier when your hotel is close to all Disney World has to offer.

  • Simplify planning with Vacation Packages that combine room, tickets, and even dining plans for a truly hassle-free vacation.

  • Magical Extras Discount Card when you book a Disney World vacation package. Includes 4-free rounds of miniature golf. Click here to learn more.

  • New for 2025 - Free entry to a Disney water park on your arrival day when you book a Disney World vacation package.

Disney World Value Resorts

Disney World Value Resorts:  The value hotels have the smallest rooms but they also have the smallest price tag. Big, bold and colorful icons make these hotels a hit with kids and, in many ways, are the most "Disney" of any of the resorts. Pools are themed but do not have pool slides. Each of the resorts has its own cafeteria style food court but no full service restaurants. These resorts enjoy the same great Disney benefits as the moderate and deluxe resorts at a much lower price point - benefits like poolside activities, early theme park entry, free parking, and complimentary transportation to the Disney theme parks. Standard rooms have two Queen-size beds accommodating four guests + one baby.  Rooms with one king-size bed may also be available. Family suites can accommodate six guests + one baby. A value resort is a great choice for you if it fits into your budget better, if the bright colors and energy appeal to you, if your plans and priorities include more time and activity in the theme parks and other Disney World locations, or if you value experiences like VIP tours above hotel perks.

Disney’s All-Star Resorts – Standing side by side, these vibrant havens kickstarted Disney's value resort category. What's unique? Each resort boasts not one, but two sparkling swimming pools to dive into. Depending on the type of promotion offered, Disney's All-Star Sports and All-Star Music Resorts may be the least expensive resorts on Disney property. Disney's All-Star Music Resort has the least expensive family suites on Disney property. Disney's All-Star Movies Resort is very Disney, very cute and the Buzz and Woody buildings are popular with Toy Story fans. Getting around is a breeze with convenient bus transportation linking you to the theme parks, water parks, and Disney Springs.

Disney’s Pop Century Resort – Immerse yourself in the vibrant nostalgia of 20th-century pop culture at this centrally located and fun-themed resort. Conveniently connected to Disney's Art of Animation resort, guests can easily explore additional dining options. What sets this resort apart is its integration with the Disney Skyliner, providing swift gondola transportation and scenic views to EPCOT and Disney's Hollywood Studios. Despite being a value resort, Disney's Pop Century offers exceptional bus transportation, rivalling even moderate and deluxe options, ensuring convenient access to Walt Disney World's enchanting attractions.

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort Step into the captivating realms of Disney storytelling at this exceptional resort, where the enchantment of Finding Nemo, Cars, The Lion King, or The Little Mermaid comes to life with unparalleled detail. While offering primarily family suites accommodating up to six guests, The Little Mermaid rooms are typical of those found in other Disney value resorts, suitable for up to 4 adults + 1 baby. As a "Value-Plus" resort, it offers an elevated experience beyond the standard value options. This resort is also connected to the Disney Skyliner, whisking you conveniently to EPCOT and Disney's Hollywood Studios via the central hub located at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort. Bus transportation is available to Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, the Disney water parks, and Disney Springs.

Disney World Moderate Resorts

Disney World Moderate Resorts: These resorts are a bit bigger, the decor is a bit nicer, standard rooms have queen beds and the resorts are more elaborately landscaped than the value resorts. The pools have slides and the resorts have more dining or entertainment options. These hotels have more of a resort feel while keeping you in close proximity to all the magic and benefits Disney World has to offer. The moderate hotels are a great option for you if the themes and amenities appeal to you, you find the larger layouts and lush landscapes more appealing, or your budget allows for a nicer resort experience but you don't want to go all in for a deluxe resort.

Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter and Port Orleans Riverside Resorts These neighboring resorts offer boat transportation to Disney Springs (formerly called Downtown Disney). Guest can use the pools and services at both resorts. Disney's Port Orleans Riverside Resort has a food court and table-service restaurant while Disney's Port Orleans French Quarter only has a food court; both resorts offer live music in their lounges on select evenings. Disney's Port Orleans Riverside Resort has some rooms that can accommodate five guests, if one guest is age nine or younger, making it one of the two most economical choices for a family of five. Disney's Port Orleans Riverside Resort also has some delightfully themed princess rooms that cost a little extra but are charming. Disney's Port Orleans French Quarter, the smallest of the moderate resorts, is cozy and inviting. Its treelined sidewalks and “roadways” provide easy access to the main services and single bus stop making it a favorite of families with small children who appreciate the shorter walk to their room after a long day of fun in the Disney World theme parks. This resort has a fun splash play area that young children will enjoy. Click here to learn more about splay play areas.

Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort - Standing as a testament to both convenience and leisure, this resort has solidified its reputation as the most popular among Disney's moderate resorts due to its captivatingly detailed pool, the delightful pirate ship splash play area for young kids, and the Disney Skyliner hub. Most of the rooms sleep up 4 guests + 1 baby, but there are also rooms that can accommodate five guests, if one guest is age nine or younger, making this one of the most economical choices for a family of five. Notably, the addition of the Disney Skyliner Hub provides a magical transportation solution, offering direct access to EPCOT and Disney's Hollywood Studios without the need for transfers, enhancing the overall guest experience. The resort's 2-story buildings do not have elevators—a consideration for families with small children. Ground floor rooms can be requested but are not guaranteed. However, guaranteed ground floor accessibility rooms can be reserved, subject to availability, for guests with wheelchairs or scooters, ensuring comfort and convenience for all. With its stunning pool, the convenience of the Disney Skyliner, and a commitment to accessibility, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort promises an unforgettable vacation that seamlessly blends relaxation and adventure. Bus transportation is available to Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, the Disney water parks, and Disney Springs.

Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort A gem among Disney moderate resorts, Coronado Springs has transformed with the iconic Gran Destino Tower, home to upscale dining at Toledo and the chic Dahlia rooftop lounge, boasting panoramic views. The lake's heart hosts The Three Bridges restaurant, while the tower lobby offers a charming coffee bar. Featuring the only club-level rooms in its category, the resort exudes luxury. For a more classic experience, rooms in buildings around the central lake accommodate up to 4 adults + 1 baby. It's important to note its convention center status, occasionally bustling with large groups, especially during breakfast. This ambiance reflects in its affiliation with Disney World's conference centers, but families delight in the themed pool and playground. All transportation is via bus, and with its largest rooms, fantastic amenities, and Gran Destino's allure, Coronado Springs promises an enchanting blend of sophistication and playfulness for a remarkable stay.

Cabins at the Fort Wilderness Campground Nestled within the rustic charm of Fort Wilderness Campground, these cabins offer a unique retreat with full kitchens, accommodating up to six guests + 1 baby. Brimming with affordability, they stand as the most economical lodgings in the Magic Kingdom resort area. However, it's essential to note that transportation here includes an internal bus to access the boat to Magic Kingdom or the buses to the other theme parks and Disney Springs, adds to your transportation time. Other options are to rent a golf cart for use at Fort Wilderness or use your own vehicle for park visits. That being said, many people love the relaxing natural contrast this location provides to the constant stimulation of the parks. Amidst the wealth of activities available, including the beloved Campfire Singalong with Chip and Dale, some may prefer the tranquil woodlands of the cabins, offering a unique choice for their Disney experience. 

Disney World Deluxe Resorts

Disney World Deluxe Resorts: These resorts have the biggest rooms and the most amenities - things like multiple restaurants, elaborately themed pools and play areas, spas, more entertainment and more services. In addition to Early Theme Park Entry, these resorts provide access to Extended Theme Park Hours at select parks on select nights. These hotels are closer to the theme parks, providing the most convenience and a definite resort experience but they also come with the biggest price tag. The deluxe resorts are a great option for you if you want to enjoy your resort and all its access and amenities.

Magic Kingdom – Monorail Loop Hotels:  Disney's Contemporary Resort, Disney's Polynesian Village Resort and Villas, and Disney's Grand Floridian Resort and Villas are the closest Disney hotels to the Magic Kingdom and are serviced by the monorail. Some rooms have Magic Kingdom views and all guests can view the fireworks and Electric Water Pageant from the marina areas of these resorts. All three have on-site character meals and other dining options.  They all also have some studios units with kitchenettes and one and two bedroom villas with full kitchens in addition to the standard hotel rooms.

  • Disney’s Contemporary Resort is one of the original two Disney World hotels and is within walking distance of the Magic Kingdom – it is special in that the monorail stops in and passes through the main tower of the hotel. The Garden View/Garden Wing rooms are not in the main tower but are typically the least expensive rooms on the monorail loop.

  • Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort offers a tropical South Pacific inspired paradise with lush landscaping, tiki torches, comfortable hotel rooms, and its iconic over-water bungalows. Experience the Lava pool featuring a towering volcano, a cascading waterfall, and a thrilling 142-foot-long waterslide, delightful dining options, and a unique ambiance that transports you to a “faraway” haven of relaxation and enchantment that just happens to be a short boat or monorail ride away from the Magic Kingdom.

  • Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa is Disney’s World’s flagship resort and it is very pretty with live music in the lobby and an elegant “Old Florida” resort feel. The pools are lovely and younger kids love the Alice in Wonderland themed wet play, splash zone area.

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is another resort in the Magic Kingdom resort area but it is not on the monorail loop and you cannot clearly see the Magic Kingdom fireworks, though you can see the nightly Electric Water Pageant. The rooms are typically less expensive than the monorail loop hotels and this resort frequently wins “best family resort” awards and has one of the highest rates of returning guests. This resort also has studios units with kitchenettes, one, two and three bedroom villas with full kitchens, and ~1,700 square foot lakeside cabins in addition to the standard hotel rooms. 

Epcot Resort Area: Nestled within a leisurely stroll from Epcot’s International Gateway entrance, these resorts offer an exceptional blend of proximity and variety. Positioned for effortless access to Epcot's World Showcase area, this resort enclave presents an array of convenient dining and entertainment options both within Epcot and at the five resorts around Crescent Lake. What sets the Epcot Resort Area apart is its unique transportation versatility, providing guests with an exciting range of commuting choices to the theme parks. The Disney Skyliner station, stationed nearby, offers a scenic route to Disney's Hollywood Studios and several resorts. Meanwhile, the enchanting option of boat transportation extends to both Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios, offering a relaxing and picturesque journey. For those bound for the Magic Kingdom and Disney's Animal Kingdom, dedicated buses ensure seamless connectivity. As a special highlight, the proximity of this resort area provides the wonderful option of strolling to both Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios, further enhancing the delightful variety of transportation experiences for an unforgettable Disney vacation.

  • Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts share an incredible and huge sand-bottomed pool complex that includes a beach area, lazy-river, and pool slide. Both of these hotels enjoy a beautiful view of the Boardwalk Inn and are in easy walking distance of Epcot's International Gateway entrance.

  • Disney’s Boardwalk Inn and Villas has restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues to keep you busy without ever stepping into a theme park.

  • Disney's Beach Club and Boardwalk Resorts have studios units with kitchenettes and one and two bedroom villas with full kitchens in addition to the standard hotel rooms.

  • Walt Disney World’s Swan , Dolphin and Swan Reserve hotels offer a harmonious blend of luxury and convenience, despite not being Disney-owned (they’re owned by Marriott). While not participating in free resort parking or Disney Dining Plans, they do offer Early Theme Park Entry and access to the Evening Extended Hours exclusive to Disney Deluxe resorts. These hotels share an array of pools and captivating on-site activities, including special holiday events and the Food & Wine Festival. With seamless access to the Disney Skyliner and boats, transportation-wise, it should be noted that they provide charter buses - not Disney buses - to Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. A minor difference arises for Magic Kingdom transportation, where guests are taken to the Disney Ticket and Transportation Center (TTC), necessitating a monorail or ferry ride to the park's front gates. Whether booked separately or part of a Disney World vacation package, these exquisite properties promise a very nice stay amid the magic.

Disney’s Riviera Resort - This European-style haven inspired by Walt’s and Lilly’s love for the Riviera offers deluxe accommodations, convenient Skyliner access, fabulous dining options, and exciting activities for all ages. While technically in the Epcot area, it is one hop away on the Skyliner, in-between the Caribbean Beach Resort Skyliner Hub and the Epcot International Gateway Skyliner Station. The resort has so many dining and activity options, including an on-site character breakfast, that a resort day here is a delight. Its tower-style design provides an easy, convenient and accessible resort.

Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge – Jambo House & Kidani Village are near Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park. This is a “stand alone” resort which means you don’t have other nearby resorts to offer additional dining and entertainment, but it also means you get less non-resort guests wandering through the public areas of the resort. This is a gorgeous resort with savanna areas featuring animals like giraffes, bongos, flamingos and zebras. Jambo House has standard hotel rooms, studios units with kitchenettes and one and two bedroom villas with full kitchens in addition to the standard hotel rooms. Kidani Village only has studios units with kitchenettes, and one and two bedroom villas with full kitchens – it does not have standard hotel rooms. It also has Uvanja Camp Water Playground, one of the best water play areas at Walt Disney World.

Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort and Old Key West Resort are near Disney Springs (formerly called Downtown Disney). These are “Disney Vacation Club” (DVC) properties featuring studios units with kitchenettes and one and two bedroom units with full kitchens; these resorts do not have standard hotel rooms. When booked as part of a Disney World vacation package, these units have regular maid service. The resorts are large and have beautiful pools. Because they have kitchens, they do not have as many restaurant options as the other deluxe resorts. Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort has some secluded freestanding “Tree house” units that can accommodate up to nine guests. Both are very large resorts with multiple bus stops which means it can be handy to have your own vehicle. Disney Springs is a quick boat ride away, providing lots of dining, shopping and entertainment options.

Disney World 'Good Neighbor' Hotels

Disney ‘Good Neighbor’ Resorts: Disney has partnered with select hotels that allow you to create packages without staying in one of the official hotels and some (mostly located in Disney Springs) offer on-site benefits like Early Theme Park Entry every day at all four parks, complimentary shuttles to the Disney theme parks, and the opportunity to book all of your dining reservations up to 60-days in advance when you book these hotels as part of a package.  These hotels may have separate resort fees and onsite parking expenses.   Disney Springs area hotels that enjoy these benefit: B Resort & Spa, Drury Plaza, DoubleTree Suites, Hilton Buena Vista Palace, Hilton Lake Buena Vista, Holiday Inn Orlando – Disney Springs, and Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista.   Epcot area resorts that enjoy these benefits: Disney Swan and Dolphin hotels.  Active duty and retired U.S. military members with a current military ID and select DOD employees can make reservations at the Shades of Green military resort in the Magic Kingdom resort area. Our agents can help you plan a great vacation at any of these Good Neighbor hotels except Shades of Green.

Don't Miss Out on Great Experiences at Disney World!

We want to help you have the most wonderful, most memorable Disney vacation possible. We know that giving you good, up-to-date information and a few simple tools will make a huge difference in your Disney vacation. Long lines become short lines and you will have great memories of shared experiences instead of missed opportunities.  That's why we're called Build A Better Mouse Trip.

Here’s How We Help You Have A Great Vacation:

  • Your travel agent – You have one agent from start-to-finish who knows your name and your priorities and who wants to do everything possible to help you have a wonderful experience.

  • “Best Days” Vacation Planning – We’ll help you pick the best park for each day based on hours and expected crowd levels then we help with dining reservations and understanding which Disney Genie+ and individual Lightning Lane selections might be right for you.

  • Saving Money – Of course we watch for discounts and promotion and automatically apply the best available offer to your reservation but we also help you avoid up-sells and options you won’t use.

  • We Are Fee-Free - We book directly through Disney and we never charge a service fee so you never pay any extra to use our services when you book your trip through us. You can have all the benefits Disney offers PLUS all the services we offer. You can also purchase planning services through us if you've booked on your own or through another travel agency.