Disney is truly in a league of its own when it comes to unique and incredible places to stay. As a child, we visited the Polynesian, and all I really remember is a vaguely tropical theme, some amazing chocolate chip cookies, and riding the monorail. (By the end of the trip, I could tell you how to “stand clear of the doors” in Spanish.)
I couldn’t tell you how many resorts existed back in the ‘90s, but I’m sure it was only a fraction of what Disney offers now — and there are a LOT. When I started researching our first family trip two years ago, I had no idea where to begin. I quickly realized there were different resort tiers… and realized I had a lot to learn.
Since then, I’ve become more familiar with many of the resorts on property. Thanks to our love of split stays (see my other post on why split stays are the absolute best), we’ve been able to explore even more during each trip.
Here’s a breakdown of Disney’s on-property resort options:
*Note: Every resort name is a hyperlink to it’s homepage.
Value Resorts
These resorts are the most affordable Disney options while still offering fun theming and great amenities — including some coveted transportation options. (I’m looking at you, Skyliner!)
Most Value Resorts feature exterior room entrances in a motel-style layout.
Art of Animation
A GREAT choice for first-time visitors. Art of Animation offers standard Little Mermaid rooms along with family suites themed to The Lion King, Cars, and Finding Nemo (the suites have interior hallway entrances). Located directly on the Skyliner, the resort also features multiple pools and great quick-service dining options.
All-Star Resorts: Music, Sports & Movies
These resorts feature oversized Disney-inspired theming similar to Art of Animation. They’re especially popular with cheerleading and sports competition groups, which can make them a bit busier and noisier at times — but still fun, cute, and budget-friendly.
Pop Century
Located across the water from Art of Animation, Pop Century is also on the Skyliner and falls within a similar price range. Each section celebrates a different decade, making it a nostalgic and colorful option.
Moderate Resorts
Moderate Resorts offer a slightly more elevated experience and include extra perks not found at Value Resorts — such as waterslides, upgraded dining options, and even body lotion in the bathrooms.
Most Moderate Resorts also feature exterior room entrances.
Caribbean Beach Resort
This resort has a laid-back tropical island feel with colorful villages, multiple pools, and plenty of bus stops since the property is very spread out. It’s also located on the Skyliner, making it incredibly convenient for EPCOT and Hollywood Studios access.
Coronado Springs Resort
Coronado Springs has a more sophisticated, adult feel and is often described as romantic, with Spanish, Mexican, and Southwestern-inspired theming. The Gran Destino Tower offers interior room entrances and a more deluxe-style atmosphere. This resort also includes a fitness center.
Port Orleans Resort — Riverside & French Quarter
Inspired by rural Louisiana and New Orleans charm, these sister resorts offer beautiful landscaping, relaxing vibes, and some of the most immersive theming on Disney property.
Deluxe Resorts
For the longest time, I thought there were only a few Deluxe Resorts because they felt so fancy. I knew the Monorail Loop hotels were Deluxe, but I genuinely thought it was just those three.
I was VERY wrong.
There are actually eight Deluxe Resorts on Disney property, each offering upscale amenities, stunning lobbies, interior room entrances, signature dining, beautiful pools, and incredible locations. Deluxe Resorts also include fitness centers, and some even offer spas.
Animal Kingdom Lodge
This is truly a one-of-a-kind resort experience, with opportunities to view wildlife right outside your room. Between the incredible atmosphere, amazing dining, and unforgettable views, it’s easy to see why so many guests love it. The main downside? Transportation is bus-only.
Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
To me, this resort is the definition of Disney luxury. It is SO fancy. I honestly feel like royalty walking around the property. The elegant Victorian-inspired design, beautiful rooms, and monorail access make it one of the most iconic Disney resorts. Guests can take the monorail to Magic Kingdom and EPCOT, and boats are also available to Magic Kingdom.
Contemporary Resort
This is another one I remember vividly from childhood. I thought it was the coolest thing ever that the monorail goes RIGHT THROUGH the building. While it may not be the “prettiest” resort aesthetically, the location is unbeatable. It offers fantastic restaurants and incredible Magic Kingdom fireworks views. Guests can take the monorail to Magic Kingdom and EPCOT, and boats are also available to Magic Kingdom.
BoardWalk Inn
This resort has a charming Atlantic City/Coney Island-style boardwalk atmosphere, complete with waterfront entertainment, games, and lively nighttime energy. Several restaurants and parks are within walking distance, making this a favorite for many guests.
Yacht Club Resort
Yacht Club has a classic New England seaside feel with beautiful waterfront views and a more relaxed atmosphere. It’s also dog-friendly and shares access to one of Disney’s best pool complexes. The resort is within walking distance of EPCOT and offers boat transportation to Hollywood Studios.
Wilderness Lodge
Inspired by national park lodges of the American Northwest, Wilderness Lodge features cozy fireplaces, nature trails, and picturesque waterfalls. It offers a peaceful, rustic atmosphere while still being close to the magic. Guests can also take a boat directly to Magic Kingdom.
Polynesian Village Resort
The Polynesian has a tropical South Pacific island vibe, complete with tiki torches and floral landscaping. It’s one of Disney’s most iconic resorts and offers convenient monorail access to both Magic Kingdom and EPCOT, along with boat transportation to Magic Kingdom.
Beach Club Resort
Located next to Yacht Club Resort, Beach Club shares many of the same amenities, including access to one of Disney’s best pool complexes. With its bright coastal New England feel, this resort is within walking distance of EPCOT and also offers boat transportation to Hollywood Studios.
Deluxe Villas
These accommodations are the ultimate “home away from home,” often featuring multiple bedrooms, full kitchens, and even washers and dryers.
Riviera Resort
Located on the Skyliner, Riviera combines Disney magic with elegant European Riviera-inspired design.
Old Key West
Inspired by the Florida Keys, this resort offers a laid-back atmosphere and access to nearby golf courses.
Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
Located near Disney Springs, Saratoga Springs is known for its relaxing atmosphere, spa offerings, and golf course access.
Additional Deluxe Villa accommodations can also be found at:
- Animal Kingdom Lodge
- Beach Club Resort
- Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
- Polynesian Village Resort
- BoardWalk Villas
- Bay Lake Tower at the Contemporary
- Wilderness Lodge
Perks of Staying on Disney Property
No matter which resort tier you choose, staying “in the Disney bubble” comes with some major perks that make the experience even more magical.
Early Entry
Disney Resort guests can enter the parks 30 minutes before the general public each day, giving you a head start on popular rides and shorter wait times.
Advanced Dining Reservations
Disney Resort guests can make dining reservations for their entire stay beginning 60 days before check-in. Off-property guests can only book one day at a time once each date hits the 60-day mark.
Complimentary Transportation
Disney transportation is one of the best perks of staying on property.
The Skyliner is my personal favorite, offering scenic gondola transportation to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. The monorail is the classic Disney transportation experience, connecting guests to Magic Kingdom and EPCOT.
Some resorts also offer boat transportation to Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, or Disney Springs. And of course, every Disney resort has access to the colorful, reliable Disney buses that can take you anywhere on property.
No matter which Disney resort you choose, there truly is something magical about staying on property. Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly fun, luxurious relaxation, or a villa big enough for the whole family, Disney resorts become part of the vacation memories themselves.
And honestly? Exploring the resorts may be one of my favorite parts of every trip.