Value, Moderate, Deluxe: How to Choose Your Disney Resort

By Jim · 7 min read

The resort you choose at Walt Disney World does more than give you a place to sleep. It shapes the pace of your trip, the transportation options available to you, the dining experiences within reach, and the overall feeling of your vacation.

Value Resorts

All-Star Movies, All-Star Music, All-Star Sports, Pop Century, Art of Animation. These are the most affordable Disney resorts and the most popular for budget-conscious families.

• Rooms are small but well-themed and clean
• Food courts are solid — better than most hotel cafeterias
• Pools are large and themed, but can be crowded
• Bus transportation only — no monorail or boat access
• Best for: Families who plan to spend most of their time in the parks

Moderate Resorts

Caribbean Beach Resort, Coronado Springs Resort, Port Orleans – French Quarter, Port Orleans – Riverside. A meaningful step up in atmosphere and amenity.

• Larger rooms with more theming detail
• Beautiful resort grounds — Caribbean Beach and Port Orleans are especially scenic
• Table-service dining options on property
• Bus transportation, with some boat service at Port Orleans
• Best for: Families who want the resort to feel like part of the vacation

Deluxe Resorts

Grand Floridian, Polynesian Village, Contemporary, BoardWalk Inn, Wilderness Lodge, Beach Club, Yacht Club, Animal Kingdom Lodge. The full Disney experience.

• Monorail or boat access to Magic Kingdom (Grand Floridian, Polynesian, Contemporary)
• Walking distance to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios (BoardWalk, Beach Club, Yacht Club)
• Signature dining restaurants on property
• Larger, more luxurious rooms with premium theming
• Best for: Families for whom the resort experience is as important as the parks

Jim's Tip: The right resort depends on your priorities. If you're park-focused and budget-conscious, Value is perfectly fine. If transportation convenience and resort atmosphere matter, the premium for Deluxe is worth it — especially for families with young children who need midday breaks.

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