Complete Guide to the Best Disney World Hotels

Ready to book your next Disney World vacation but not sure where to stay? We’ve got you covered!

With over 25 official Disney World hotels and countless other options nearby, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is right for you. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best Disney World hotels to help make your decision easier.

Caribbean Beach and Riviera Resort

When choosing a hotel, it’s important to consider things like the location, what amenities are included, and the price. Do you want to be close to a certain park? Are you looking for a hotel with a pool or a spa? Do you have a specific budget in mind? We’re taking all of these factors into account to help you find the best Disney World hotels for your needs. So whether you’re planning a family vacation or a romantic getaway, we’ve got you covered with the best options for your stay at Disney World – let’s get to it!

Disney World Hotels Overview + Benefits

Before we dive into the best Disney World hotels to stay at, let’s go over why you should be considering staying at a Disney Resort hotel in the first place.

Walt Disney World is home to 25 different hotels that span the entire property. Because Disney World is so large, you’ll find that the hotels are sorted into different park areas based on their location (Magic Kingdom area, EPCOT area, Disney’s Hollywood Studios area, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom area). It may be beneficial to take the location into account when deciding where to stay if you plan to frequent one or two parks more than others during your stay as it can save you a lot of transportation time.

Proximity to the parks isn’t the only perk to staying at a Disney World hotel! Guests staying on property also receive:

  • Complimentary transportation to all four theme parks, the water parks, and Disney Springs
  • Complimentary theme park parking
  • Access to Early Theme Park Entry which allows you to enter any of the theme parks 30 minutes before they open every day of the week
  • Access to Extended Evening Theme Park Hours which gives you an extra two hours in select parks on select nights of the week (note that this perk is only available to guests staying at select Disney World hotels)
  • The ability to make dining reservations earlier than other guests
  • The option to add a Disney Dining Plan to your reservation

There are also several off-site hotels surrounding Disney property that offer more budget-friendly accommodations and some even include certain Disney hotel guest perks. Just be sure to check with the hotel before you book.

So, what hotel is best for YOU? Let’s break it down!

Best By Disney Resort Category

Disney World Resort hotels are divided into three main categories – Value Resorts, Moderate Resorts, and Deluxe Resorts. The price point and amenities vary greatly depending on what category you choose with Value Resorts being the most affordable and offering fewer amenities, Deluxe Resorts being the most expensive and offering the most amenities, and Moderate Resorts falling somewhere in between.

There are several resorts within each category to choose from, but here’s a look at the best ones in each!

Best Value Resort – Disney’s Pop Century Resort

If you’re looking for an affordable option that still offers plenty of Disney magic, Disney’s Pop Century Resort is the way to go. This resort is themed around pop culture from the 1950s to the 1990s, with larger-than-life icons and decorations throughout the property.

Here are some of the highlights of Disney’s Pop Century Resort:

  • Affordable rates, with rooms starting at around $160 per night
  • Multiple pools, including a kiddie pool and a main pool with a pool bar
  • Quick-service dining options, including a food court with a variety of options
  • Access to the Disney Skyliner gondola system which takes guests to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Best Moderate Resort – Disney’s Port Orleans Resort (French Quarter & Riverside)

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort is divided into two sections: French Quarter and Riverside. Both offer a charming, Southern-inspired atmosphere with some unique amenities like a lounge with live entertainment on select nights and one of the most coveted Disney snacks around – Mickey Beignets.

Here are some of the highlights of Disney’s Port Orleans Resort:

  • Beautiful theming, with lush gardens, cobblestone streets, and wrought-iron balconies
  • Multiple pools, including a waterslide and a hot tub
  • Boat transportation to Disney Springs
  • Table-service and quick-service dining options, including a popular Cajun restaurant at the French Quarter
  • Live entertainment 5 nights a week at Scat Cat’s Club
  • The beloved Mickey Beignets

Best Deluxe Resort – Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

For the ultimate luxury experience, look no further than Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. This Victorian-inspired resort is located on the shores of Seven Seas Lagoon, with stunning views of Cinderella Castle (and the nightly fireworks show at Magic Kingdom!). The resort is also home to a full-service spa and wedding pavilion.

Here are some of the highlights of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa:

  • Elegant and sophisticated theming, with live music in the lobby and a grand staircase
  • Multiple pools, including a beach pool and leisure pool
  • Access to the monorail, making it easy to get to Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and other nearby resorts
  • Multiple fine-dining options, including the highly acclaimed Victoria & Albert’s restaurant
  • Watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks show above Cinderella Castle from your room (if you have a theme park view) or from the patio by Gasparilla Island Grill
Gingerbread Display at Disney's Grand Floridian

Of course, there are many more hotels in Disney World to choose from, and they might fit your needs better than these three. Here are some other Disney hotels to consider based on your needs and interests!

Best For Families – Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is a Value Resort that offers rooms with more space for families at an affordable price. The resort has four themed sections featuring The Little Mermaid, The Lion King, Finding Nemo, and Cars. While *The Little Mermaid-*themed section includes standard rooms with two queen beds and a bathroom, the other three sections are family suites that have two rooms, three beds, a kitchenette, and two bathrooms.

Here are some of the highlights of Disney’s Art of Animation Resort:

  • Family suites sleep up to 6 guests making it an affordable option for larger families
  • The hotel’s main *Finding Nemo-*themed pool is the largest pool across all of the Disney World hotels making it easy to cool off and have some fun on particularly hot days
  • Access to the Disney Skyliner gondola system which takes guests to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Best For Adults – Disney’s BoardWalk Inn

Disney’s BoardWalk Inn is a Deluxe Resort that is located in the EPCOT Resort Area and is inspired by the boardwalks of the early 20th century. The hotel has a great location, with EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios only a short walk or boat ride away. And, you’ll be staying right on Disney’s BoardWalk where you can dine at some of the best restaurants in Disney World, explore unique nightclubs and lounges, or relax at the pool.

Here are some of the highlights of Disney’s BoardWalk Inn:

  • You can walk to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios (boat transportation is also available)
  • You’re staying on Disney’s BoardWalk which means there are many dining and entertainment options making it easy to have a fun evening outside of the parks
  • Guest rooms have recently been updated
  • You can watch the nightly EPCOT fireworks from Disney’s BoardWalk
best disney world hotels

Best Budget Hotel – Disney’s All-Star Resorts

If you’re looking for a Disney World hotel that won’t break the bank, Disney’s All-Star Resorts are a great option. These three resorts – All-Star Movies, All-Star Music, and All-Star Sports – offer the most affordable rates across all Disney World hotels and a fun Disney-themed atmosphere.

Each of the three resorts has its own unique theme, with larger-than-life decorations and details that will make you feel like you’re right in the middle of a Disney movie. All-Star Movies is themed around popular Disney films, while All-Star Music celebrates various genres of music, and All-Star Sports is all about sports and athleticism.

Here are some of the highlights of Disney’s All-Star Resorts:

  • Get all the perks of staying at a Disney World Resort hotel for the cheapest price
  • Larger-than-life theming featuring your favorite Disney and Pixar movies
  • Multiple leisure pools and a large cafeteria-style dining option make it easy to relax and enjoy a meal regardless of your age or preferences

Best Luxury Hotel – Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

We’ve talked about Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa before and we’ve got to talk about it again because it’s an easy win for the most luxurious hotel in Walt Disney World.

The Deluxe Resort is located on the shores of the Seven Seas Lagoon, just a short monorail ride away from Magic Kingdom. The resort boasts stunning views of Cinderella Castle and nightly fireworks, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day in the parks.

The rooms at the Grand Floridian are spacious and beautifully decorated, with a Victorian-inspired theme. You can choose from standard rooms, club level rooms, and suites, all of which come with modern amenities like flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and free Wi-Fi.

Here are some of the highlights of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa:

  • Elegant and sophisticated theming, with live music in the lobby and a grand staircase
  • Multiple pools, including a beach pool and leisure pool
  • Access to the monorail, making it easy to get to Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and other nearby resorts
  • Multiple fine-dining options, including the highly acclaimed Victoria & Albert’s restaurant
  • Watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks show above Cinderella Castle from your room (if you have a theme park view) or from the patio by Gasparilla Island Grill

Best Luxury On A Budget Hotel – Gran Destino Tower at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort

If you’re looking for luxury on a budget, the Gran Destino Tower at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is a great option. The tower is a newer addition to Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort and, while the price point is a little higher than the main resort area, the tower offers a higher-end experience for a moderate price. The resort also boasts the most dining options compared to the other hotels in the Moderate Resort category and has a conference center that attracts many business travelers throughout the year.

Here are some of the highlights of the Gran Destino Tower at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort:

  • The hotel is modern and stylish, with sleek decor and upscale amenities
  • The rooms are spacious and well-appointed, with comfortable beds and plenty of storage space
  • The hotel has one of the largest varieties of dining options, including a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the surrounding area and the nightly EPCOT fireworks display
  • Convenient transportation options to all of the Disney parks and attractions
Best Disney hotels

Best For Foodies – Disney’s Riviera Resort

If you’re a foodie, Disney’s Riviera Resort is the perfect place for you to stay. From an open-air pool bar with unique signature drinks, a signature coffee shop, a quick service restaurant serving up Italian-inspired cuisine, and a rooftop restaurant that is home to one of the best character breakfasts and then transforms into a signature dining restaurant in the evening, you’ll be treated to some of the best food on Disney property when staying here!

Here are some other highlights of Disney’s Riviera Resort:

  • European-inspired theming with beautiful artwork and architecture
  • Multiple pools, including a feature pool with a waterslide and a quiet pool for relaxation
  • Access to the Disney Skyliner, a gondola system that connects the resort to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios
  • A variety of dining options, including a rooftop restaurant with stunning views and a quick-service location with grab-and-go options
  • Spacious villas with modern amenities, including full kitchens and in-room laundry facilities

Best For Couples – Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

When you stay at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort you’ll feel like you’ve escaped on a tropical getaway with all the perks of staying at a Disney World hotel. The Deluxe Resort is located on the Magic Kingdom monorail loop and offers beautiful theming, newly updated rooms, and plenty of luxury amenities. The hotel is home to one of the most popular restaurants on Disney property, ‘Ohana, where you can enjoy a Polynesian-themed dinner or enjoy a character breakfast with Lilo and Stitch.

Here are some of the highlights of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort:

  • Unique Hawaiian-theming
  • Access to the monorail, making it easy to get to Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and other nearby resorts
  • Watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks show above Cinderella Castle from your room (if you have a theme park view) or from the beach
  • Enjoy Dole Whip at Pineapple Lanai – the only spot you can find the signature Disney treat outside of the parks!
Best Disney World hotels

Best For Park Frequenters – Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

If you’re a frequent park-goer, then Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort might be the perfect hotel for you. This resort is the main hub for the Disney Skyliner gondola system, making it easy to get to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. From EPCOT you can also hop on the monorail which can take you to Magic Kingdom. And, Disney’s Animal Kingdom is only a bus ride away!

Here are some other highlights of Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort:

  • Caribbean-inspired theming with colorful buildings and lush landscaping
  • Multiple pools, including a feature pool with water cannons and a pirate ship play area
  • Convenient location near the Disney Skyliner, providing easy access to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios
  • A variety of dining options, including a food court with international cuisine and a poolside bar with tropical drinks
  • Spacious rooms with island-inspired decor and modern amenities, including mini-refrigerators and flat-screen TVs
  • A fitness center and access to recreational activities like bike rentals and fishing excursions
  • A beautiful lake with a jogging trail and scenic views, perfect for a morning run or evening stroll.

Best For Relaxing By The Pool – Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resort

If you’re looking for a hotel with the best pool complex at Disney World, look no further than Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resort. These two resorts share a pool – Stormalong Bay which is a 3-acre water park. It includes a water slide, lazy river, and sand-bottom pool and it’s only accessible to hotel guests (which isn’t the case for other Disney hotel pools). This pool is so impressive that many people stay at the Beach Club or Yacht Club resorts just for that!

Here are some other highlights of Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resort:

  • Convenient location within walking distance to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios (boat transportation is also available to both parks from the resorts)
  • A variety of dining options, including a character breakfast at Cape May Cafe and a steakhouse with waterfront views
  • Spacious rooms with coastal decor and modern amenities, including mini-refrigerators and Keurig coffee makers
  • A fitness center and access to recreational activities like tennis, fishing, and bike rentals

Best Off-Site Hotels

If you’re looking for a more affordable hotel near Disney World that’s not located on Disney property, there are plenty of great options to choose from. Here are three of the best off-site hotels to consider for your next Disney vacation:

Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort

The Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort is a luxurious option for those who want to stay close to Disney without actually staying on Disney property. This hotel is located just minutes away from the theme parks, and it offers a variety of amenities that will make your stay comfortable and enjoyable.

Some of the hotel’s highlights include a championship golf course, a full-service spa, and several on-site restaurants. The rooms are spacious, offering a bit more space for the price point compared to Disney World hotels. All in all, if you’re looking for a high-end hotel experience that’s not at the Disney price point, the Four Seasons Resort Orlando is definitely worth considering.

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Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin Hotel

The Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin Hotel is one of the most desirable off-site hotels because it’s actually located on Disney property. The two hotels sit across from each other and are within walking distance of both EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. And, you can even hop on complimentary Disney boat transportation to get between the two parks if you’d prefer!

The Swan & Dolphin Hotel offers a variety of room types, from standard rooms to suites. Plus, there are plenty of amenities to enjoy as well. The hotel has several on-site restaurants, a fitness center, and even a private beach. Plus, guests can take advantage of many Disney hotel guest perks including Early Theme Park Entry AND Extended Evening Theme Park Hours.

Walt Disney World Swan Reserve

The Walt Disney World Swan Reserve is a newer addition to the Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin Hotel complex, and it’s quickly become a popular choice for those who want to save some money on their hotel stay. This hotel offers spacious suites with modern decor, and there are plenty of amenities to enjoy as well.

The Swan Reserve has its own pool area, as well as several on-site restaurants and a fitness center. Plus, guests can take advantage of all the amenities at the main Swan & Dolphin Hotel. This includes the private beach, complimentary boat transportation to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and extra time in the parks.

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So, there you have it, the BEST Disney World hotels! Don’t forget to take into account your budget and what you really need when choosing where to stay. And, remember…it’s hard to go wrong when you’re choosing a Disney Resort to stay at – they’ve all got that Disney touch!

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What amenities do you look for when searching for a Disney World hotel? What hotels have you stayed at and loved? Let us know in the comments what Disney World Resort you think is best!

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