Disney World inns: Execs and cons

Even well-seasoned travelers can agree that Disney World hotels are in a category all their own. Impeccably themed, the resorts at the “Vacation Kingdom of the World” are attractions in their own right — from the South Pacific vibes of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort to the chic French feel of Disney’s Riviera Resort.

There’s also a little something for everyone within the three hotel tiers — Value, Moderate and Deluxe — offering different price points and levels of amenities. There are over-the-top pools with thrilling slides, epicurean bites, cozy lounges and well-appointed rooms.

Related: A magical guide for how to plan a trip to Disney World this year

I’ve been visiting Disney World regularly since 1990. In more than 500-plus days spent there, I’ve managed to pull myself away from the rides and churros to really explore and soak in the iconic park’s many on-site resorts. In fact, they’ve become my favorite part of visiting.

Recently, I achieved the holy grail of Disney: I have stayed as an overnight guest at every single one of its resorts (with the majority being repeat stays). Here’s an honest look at each resort and my thoughts on their unique features and drawbacks.

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort’s on-site dining remains some of my favorite and most popular, including fan-favorite Ohana and its beloved noodle dish. (Pro tip: You can also grab Ohana’s famous noodles and bread pudding next door at Tambu Lounge with no reservation.) And even though Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto has been open for nearly 10 years, it still remains one of the toughest spots to get into.

That said, overnight guests of the Polynesian have no booking advantages or dining priority over any other Disney hotel guest, which means you may not be able to take advantage of the property’s best amenities — Trader Sam’s and Ohana — despite paying a pretty penny to stay at one of Disney’s most expensive hotels.

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

The crown jewel of Disney World’s portfolio of hotels — Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa — is a whole vibe with its Victorian-era opulence. With views of Cinderella Castle looming in the distance, I get why it’s become the icon of Disney hotels. I intentionally avoided returning for a stay until a recent guest room refurbishment reinvigorated the accommodations with a “Mary Poppins”-inspired motif — and now I love the rooms so much I’ve returned twice since the renovation.

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There are quite a few restaurants on-site that I find myself visiting again and again, including Citricos and the “Beauty and the Beast”-themed Enchanted Rose. Charming grounds and standout pools make this an alluring option if you can stomach the price tag — it’s usually one of the most expensive options.

And while it’s perfectly fine to visit a few of its dining locations in park clothes, several have a dress code, therefore limiting the casual nature of grabbing a quick bite to eat in the same locale where you rest your head. Its selling point is the close proximity to the Magic Kingdom, but the monorail that quickly whisks you to the park is typically inundated during peak times, like following fireworks. In recent years, a dedicated walking path connecting the park and resort was created, and it has since become my go-to transport option, as it only takes around 15 minutes to walk.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

I think nothing embodies Walt Disney’s own zest for adventure better than Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. The peak of Walt Disney Imagineering is a stunning property that feels like an authentic African safari lodge (I was quite shocked at just how authentic it was when I recently visited an actual lodge). Its rooms overlooking the savannah and the roaming animals are pure Disney magic.

Dining here is spectacular, especially for adventurous eaters and wine lovers, with restaurants like the high-end steakhouse, Jiko — The Cooking Place, which features the largest selection of South African wines outside of Africa. Many visitors, including myself, come to the resort just for its now-famous Indian-style bread service from Sanaa (which I can confirm does indeed live up to the hype).

The resort has a bit of an isolated feel, which I love for a vacation, but it is on the outskirts of Walt Disney World property, adding (at times) lengthy travel time when trying to visit other destinations like Disney Springs. The resort is also broken up into two buildings, Kidani and Jambo, each with its own pools and dining, and while you have access to both, it does require a shuttle or a nearly 10-minute walk to get from one building to the other.

Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Disney World’s other original resort leans heavily into brand nostalgia. With the monorail running directly through it and design touches from Disney legend Mary Blair, this resort feels so authentically Disney. With the Magic Kingdom’s entrance just steps away, Disney’s Contemporary Resort is a particularly popular option for families with younger kids. A much-needed refurbishment saw its outdated guest rooms transformed with “The Incredibles” theming and an overall aesthetic that’s more modern.

There’s no way around it: For a prime location, you’ll fork over a pretty penny — which can be hard to justify. On top of that, staying in the main A-frame building will cost even more. The garden wing, where you’ll find all the property’s dining options and shops, is a bit removed from the main building. Its pools also leave much to be desired and could use amplified theming and features.

While the refurbishment was necessary to bring rooms into the modern age, the multicolored accents can be a bit off-putting to some, especially at the price. I love visiting the hotel for two of Disney World’s best restaurants, California Grill and Steakhouse 71, but it’s difficult to justify the cost of a stay.

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort & Disney’s Beach Club Resort

While they are technically two separate resorts, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort and Disney’s Beach Club Resort are connected and share the very best pool complex on the property, 3-acre Stormalong Bay. The oasis is basically a miniature water park with its elaborate shipwreck-themed waterslide, sand-bottom pools and lazy river. It’s easily the resort’s greatest selling point, in my opinion.

Its location is another highlight. All that’s required to reach Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios is a short walk. The property is also a hop, skip and a jump away from a bevy of restaurants and nighttime options at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn and the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin resorts.

If you’re looking for the quintessential Disney experience, this might not be it, as the Yacht and Beach clubs lack some of the colorful character flair of other resorts. You’ll also need to factor in travel time to Disney’s Animal Kingdom and the Magic Kingdom due to both being too far to walk to.

Disney’s BoardWalk Inn

At Disney’s BoardWalk Inn, it’s all about location, location, location. Not only is it a short distance to Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, but it’s also home to a turn-of-the-century-style seaside boardwalk complete with sought-after restaurants, live entertainment and games. As a night owl, I love being close to some of the only after-hours fun you can find at Disney World outside of Disney Springs, including dueling piano bar Jelly Rolls.

Currently, the resort is undergoing a renovation, which means guest rooms are getting the much-needed TLC they deserve, further making this a great Deluxe option.

For me, its only drawback is its lackluster pool complexes, especially when you compare its main pool to other Deluxe resorts like the Polynesian and neighboring Yacht and Beach clubs. The resort’s overall lively nature also may not be ideal for those looking for a quieter vacation, but with a full resort-wide overhaul in process, I’m hopeful it will add value and appeal to an even wider group of Disney visitors.

Disney’s Riviera Resort

Drawing influences from the coastlines of Italy and France, Disney’s Riviera Resort is one of the more luxurious hotels on Disney property, offering endless marble tiles, stonework and stunning light fixtures. I love how it effortlessly weaves Disney theming, including gorgeous painted murals and artwork-filled hallways, throughout the property in a tasteful, subtle manner. The rooms are elegantly appointed, too, and several even feature large marble soaking tubs.

For me, this resort checks all the boxes: tranquil pools, relaxing grounds and excellent restaurants. It’s home to the best coffee shop at Disney World, Le Petit Cafe, and one of my favorite restaurants, Topolino’s Terrace, which arguably has the best character breakfast at the theme parks. For Walt Disney buffs, the Voyageurs’ Lounge is a particular treat, as it celebrates the many European adventures of the man behind the mouse.

With a dedicated Disney Skyliner stop quickly gliding guests to Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Epcot, this is a huge selling point for the resort. However, Florida’s unpredictable weather is known to cause the mode of transportation to shut down temporarily during storms, which can add quite the hiccup to a hotel guest’s park day.

Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa

This equestrian-themed hotel is mere steps from Disney Springs and accessible by foot and boat. That can be particularly enticing when I want to spend ample time at Disney Springs.

But don’t assume that means there isn’t plenty to do on-site. You’ll find several pools and an abundance of activities, including yoga and tennis. (There’s also a spa, though it unfortunately has yet to reopen after Disney’s coronavirus pandemic closure.) It embodies a bit of a sleepy feel overall, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing, especially if you want less of that distinctly Disney feel.

If you’re a horse fan, you’ll love it. If you don’t quite get that theme — or care for it — it may be a bit too much. Its distance from all four parks may be a drawback, too. Even within the resort, you’ll have to navigate the challenges of an internal shuttle system, as the resort is divided into five sections.

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

An ode to Walt’s fascination with the Pacific Northwest, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is easily one of the most visually stunning resorts — inspired by the country’s national parks — and one of Disney’s cheapest Deluxe resorts. Its soaring, grand lobby is a testament to the greatness that Walt Disney Imagineering is capable of with massive totem poles, ornate flooring and a sweeping floor-to-ceiling fireplace.

Its two pools offer a mix of thrills and recharge, with one of the best waterslides at Disney. Add in its stellar on-site dining, including Story Book Dining at Artist Point with Snow White (an elevated approach to character dining), outdoor facilities like bike trails and quick boat transportation to the Magic Kingdom, and it’s easy to see that the property offers the makings of a perfect family vacation.

The one obvious setback I’ve found is the sometimes lengthy time it takes to travel to the other three theme parks, plus Disney’s water parks and Disney Springs. Otherwise, it’s an excellent value and a well-priced Deluxe option.

This sprawling property that doubles as a convention center is sort of like two hotels in one, with its newest addition, the Gran Destino Tower, being one of my favorites. Its luxury-leaning feel (think: refined yet casual) makes it an excellent on-site value, as the property is considered a Moderate resort and therefore priced cheaper than those in the Deluxe category.

I particularly love the rooms in the new tower as they are some of my favorites, with large rain showers and modern furnishings. With great pools and five on-site restaurants (two of which offer fireworks views), I can be totally content in spending the bulk of my time there.

The grounds at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort are without a doubt gorgeous with pops of Southwest and Spanish accents, but keep in mind that it is quite spread out — and a stay in the back building means around a 15-minute walk to the main front building where most of the dining is located. Another drawback is the theme park bus loop, which doesn’t have one central location but instead four stops, both at pickup and on return from the parks, with the final being Gran Destino Tower.

Disney’s Old Key West Resort

The first Disney Vacation Club resort taps into the charm of Florida’s southernmost point, complete with vibrant colors and a relaxed feel that offers a welcome respite smack dab in the middle of the mouse house. Its rooms are some of the largest at Disney World and are great when I’m looking to really make myself feel at home on vacation or when traveling with a larger party.

The main pool, Sandcastle Pool, is pure fun with a large waterslide, a children’s pool and even a whirlpool (perfect for after a park day). Its connected pool bar, the Gurgling Suitcase, is a Disney favorite, with delicious bites and signature cocktails (try the Turtle Krawl).

Those not privy to the DVC life may mistake the resort’s quaintness for outdatedness. It’s not as flashy as other properties, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. The property is large, with more than 40 buildings of accommodations, and if you aren’t near the main Hospitality House, it could require an internal shuttle to access most of the amenities, though many other buildings have their own smaller leisure pools and laundry facilities.

Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

If your ideal vacation hotel has white sandy beaches and an island-infused lifestyle, it’s hard to beat Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort. The heart of the resort is its bustling Fuentes del Morro Pool, which is Spanish fort-themed and complete with a water play area, slides and even water cannons.

The property also has one of Disney dining’s greatest hidden gems: Sebastian’s Bistro. The table-service restaurant is a bargain in terms of Disney dollars and has a delicious lineup of dishes with Caribbean and Latin flair. If you want to really amplify the Disney feeling during your stay, you can even book a themed room, which I’ve found to be particularly fun for a celebratory trip.

While I love the convenience and value the Skyliner adds, the property is very large and operates with an internal bus system that can add up to 20 minutes of travel time before you even leave the resort to head to your final destination. Be prepared to walk, as depending on your room location, it can be quite a hike to your bus stop or the Skyliner. I hate to admit it, but I once got completely lost during a prior stay.

Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground

Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground takes the brand’s distinctly detailed theming to the next level, evoking the natural and timeless beauty of a bygone era. I find something so magical about visiting a place that feels like you’ve stepped back in time.

I love this resort’s many hidden gems, including one of America’s longest-running dinner shows, Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue, and Tri-Circle-D Ranch, home to the Magic Kingdom’s horses. There are also horseback riding, fishing and other activities you won’t find anywhere else, adding to the special nature. A shuttle connects guests to Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, and while you don’t have access to its pool, you can enjoy its many on-site dining options conveniently. I also love the short boat journey over to the Magic Kingdom.

Much like Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, this sprawling resort requires patience as it’s interconnected through an internal bus system, which can quickly tack on travel time.

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Disney’s Port Orleans resorts

Comprising two connected resorts — Riverside and French Quarter — this beloved Disney property is full of fancy and charm. Each is unique, with the French Quarter overflowing with magnolia blossoms and wrought-iron fixtures while Riverside embodies the bayou but with a romantic twist.

With access to both properties via a walking path along the scenic Sassagoula River or a ferry boat, this complex is a win-win in my eyes, offering access to more dining options. Because of this, the resorts really feel like places worthy of straying from the parks. And yes, the good times are rolling with Mickey beignets found exclusively at the French Quarter’s Scat Cat Club. With well-themed pools, whimsical grounds and interesting restaurants, it’s no wonder why this is a repeat stay for many loyal Disney fans.

Riverside can be a bit overwhelming due to its size and sheer sensory overload, so I’d recommend the much smaller French Quarter. If staying at Riverside, I think it’s worth the splurge for a preferred room to be closer to the main building where its dining and transportation stops are located.

Related: This Disney World hotel room will make your family feel like royalty

Collectively made up of three resorts — Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort, Disney’s All-Star Music Resort and Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort — Disney’s All-Star properties are the mouse’s answer to budget-friendly accommodations. All rooms have an exterior entrance, like a motel, and each property is rather large with many buildings. Every All-Star resort is anchored by a main building that serves as the central hub and houses its sole dining option (a food court), plus an arcade, a merchandise shop, guest services and park transportation.

In recent years, the motel-style property has escalated in price, making it harder to justify the cost — especially with so many nearby properties that are easier on the wallet and have better amenities. If your room is in a back building, it’s a literal hike back to the main lobby for that after-park snack run. The sheer capacity adds complexities to the resort’s sole mode of transportation, too. During busy times, like park openings, I’ve experienced long lines for the bus and have even needed to wait for several rounds of buses to come before making it on one.

Disney’s Pop Century Resort

With a higher price tag than the All-Star resorts, Disney’s Pop Century Resort features much of the same when it comes to accommodations but with one big bonus: a Skyliner stop. The rooms have been refurbished recently and now feature a modern look with many Disney touches.

That said, the resort is massive, with the most hotel rooms out of any Disney World hotel. Depending on what you plan to do with your time, you can stay in a building near the Skyliner stop with easy access to Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, but this will mean you’re farthest from the front lobby where the dining venue and bus stops are located.

With its sole dining location being a food court, it can take quite a while to grab food during busy times, like the end of a theme park day, due to the number of guests the venue serves. When this is the case, your best bet may be to walk over to grab a bite from Disney’s Art of Animation Resort or take the Skyliner to Disney’s Riviera Resort or Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort.

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

Don’t let its label as a Value resort fool you. Disney’s Art of Animation Resort may be more budget-friendly compared to other hotels, but it operates a Skyliner station and has one of the most impressive on-site pools. The zero-entry “Finding Nemo”-inspired pool is the largest at Disney and is reason alone to book if you’re looking to soak up some sun and cool off when vacationing.

The hotel itself is like a massive movie set, with tons of over-the-top, towering photo-ops celebrating the company’s most beloved animated films and fueling the level of immersion. Its family suites are also a game changer for families of six.

While the theming may convince you otherwise, it’s still a Value resort, meaning your dining options are limited to a quick-service location (a food court) with basic American eats.