The 18 Best Disney World Hotels for an Extra-magical Vacation

Embarking on a vacation to Walt Disney World is like stepping into a realm where enchantment and wonder meet. From its inception in 1971, Walt Disney World Resort has evolved into an iconic destination, expanding from one theme park to a sprawling 47 square miles resort complex.

Today, it encompasses four major theme parks – Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom – as well as two water parks. Integral to this enchanting world are its numerous themed hotels, each offering unique experiences and magical stays that complement the fantasy and adventure found in the parks.

These hotels, varying in themes and styles, contribute significantly to the immersive Disney experience, catering to families and visitors from around the world who come to enjoy the magic of Disney. 

When you book a stay at a Disney World hotel, you’re not just booking a room; you’re choosing to immerse yourself in an environment where every detail is crafted to make your vacation as magical and memorable as possible.

Best Disney World Hotels

1. Pop Century Resort

Disney’s Pop Century Resort is celebrated for its value, offering a journey through American pop culture from the 1950s to the 1990s. Its recent room redesign enhances both style and functionality, much to the delight of guests.

A standout feature is the Disney Skyliner gondola access, connecting the resort to Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Epcot.

Despite its value status, Pop Century doesn’t skimp on amenities, offering everything from a vibrant food court to engaging pools. It’s an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking a full Disney experience​​.

2. Polynesian Village Resort

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, one of the original Walt Disney World resorts, offers a South Pacific paradise ambiance on the shores of Seven Seas Lagoon.

The resort’s 847 rooms, distributed across 39 acres, promise a casual yet enchanting experience. Guests can enjoy spectacular views of the Magic Kingdom, accessible via a two-stop monorail journey.

The resort’s theme is reflected in its tropical landscaping, waterfalls, and bamboo tiki torches, creating an immersive island experience. The Polynesian Village Resort is known for its amazing food, volcano-themed pool, and sandy beach, making it a top choice for an unforgettable vacation​​.

3. Coronado Springs (Mostly Gran Destino Tower)

Gran Destino Tower at Coronado Springs Resort adds a distinct and modern flair to Walt Disney World’s lodging options. This tower is a fusion of deluxe quality accommodations at a moderate price.

With 545 guest rooms, including 50 suites, it caters largely to adults and convention-goers, offering a Las Vegas-style experience with less emphasis on Disney theming.

Rooms are spacious and well-equipped with modern amenities, but lack balconies. The tower also features unique dining options like Toledo and Dahlia Lounge. It’s an ideal choice for adult couples or business travelers seeking a sophisticated stay at Disney.

4. Wilderness Lodge

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, designed to evoke the spirit of U.S. National Parks, stands out with its stunning Pacific Northwest theme. From its massive lobby adorned with an 80-foot fireplace to the carefully curated rustic decor, it provides a unique and immersive experience.

It’s particularly magical during the holiday season when its Christmas decorations make it arguably the best-themed resort at Disney World. The lodge’s dining options, like Whispering Canyon Cafe and Artist Point, offer diverse and enjoyable meals.

The resort’s pools, including the main Copper Creek pool with a waterslide, add to the charm. Wilderness Lodge is a boat ride away from the Magic Kingdom, making it a convenient choice for park-goers. Despite its Deluxe status, it’s priced more affordably compared to other resorts in its category.

5. BoardWalk Inn

BoardWalk Inn, evocative of Atlantic City at the turn of the century, offers an enchanting experience with its charming boardwalk packed with entertainment, dining, and shopping. Located within walking distance to both EPCOT and Hollywood Studios, its location is unbeatable for park enthusiasts.

The resort is known for its lively atmosphere, especially in the evening when the boardwalk comes alive with street performers and bustling activity. The rooms and suites are elegantly appointed, reflecting the grandeur of the 1940s Atlantic coast.

Guests at BoardWalk Inn enjoy amenities like surrey bike rentals, tennis courts, and fishing excursions, along with a carnival-themed pool area complete with a roller coaster water slide.

6. Art of Animation

Art of Animation is a vibrant resort that brings Disney and Pixar animations to life. It offers family suites themed around popular films like “Cars,” “Finding Nemo,” and “The Lion King,” each equipped with two bathrooms, a kitchenette, and a master bedroom, ensuring comfort for families.

The suites are distinguished by their creative theming, mirroring the charm of the movies. The resort also has standard rooms themed after “The Little Mermaid,” featuring delightful details such as seashell-shaped headboards.

Art of Animation’s most impressive feature is its transportation options, including the Disney Skyliner gondola, providing easy access to Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Epcot. The resort also enjoys efficient bus services, unique for a Value Resort.

The Big Blue Pool, the largest at any Disney Resort hotel, offers a great swimming experience, while the Cozy Cone and Flippin’ Fins Pools provide more relaxed environments. The resort’s Landscape of Flavors food court offers a diverse menu, and guests can enjoy various activities like animation classes, jogging trails, and arcade games.

7. Port Orleans French Quarter

Port Orleans French Quarter is known for its picturesque setting inspired by New Orleans’ historic French Quarter. It’s a smaller and more intimate resort compared to others, offering a relaxed and romantic atmosphere.

The resort features cobblestone streets, gas lamps, and wrought-iron balconies, adding to its charm. The Doubloon Lagoon pool, with its serpent-themed slide, is a highlight for families.

Dining options include the popular Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory, serving a range of dishes including New Orleans-inspired cuisine.

8. Contemporary Resort

Disney’s Contemporary Resort stands out for its modern design and proximity to the Magic Kingdom, accessible via a walkway or the monorail. The resort offers a variety of room options in the main tower, garden wing, and Bay Lake Tower.

Its rooms are among the largest single hotel rooms on the Disney property, with modern decor and Disney touches. The resort’s dining options include the popular California Grill and Chef Mickey’s.

Additionally, the resort has two pools, including a feature pool with a waterslide, and offers a range of recreational activities. Club Level access is available with enhanced amenities and spectacular views from the Atrium Club lounge.

9. Fort Wilderness Resort

Fort Wilderness Resort offers a unique camping experience at Disney, blending nature with the magic of Disney. The Wilderness Cabin sleeps up to 6 adults, featuring a queen bed, bunk bed, and double-size sofa sleeper, along with amenities like a kitchen and free WiFi.

The resort provides a variety of accommodations, including tent and RV sites, each offering different features. Dining options include Crockett’s Tavern and the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue, known for its entertaining dinner show.

Guests can enjoy two pools, including the feature Meadow Swimmin’ Pool with a waterslide. Fort Wilderness also offers a plethora of recreational activities like horseback riding, archery, and bike rentals. The resort’s large size is served by an internal bus system, and boat service is available to the Magic Kingdom.

10. Yacht Club

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort is a New England nautical-themed resort located near EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The resort boasts one of the best pools on Disney property, Stormalong Bay, 3-acre water wonderland featuring a sandy beach, waterslide, and lazy river.

With its proximity to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, guests enjoy convenient access to these parks. The resort also offers a variety of dining options including the Yachtsman Steakhouse and Ale and Compass Lounge.

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort has a sophisticated atmosphere. It’s known for its convention facilities and is a favorite among adult guests for its serene ambiance.

11. Caribbean Beach Resort

Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort offers a tropical theme with modern rooms and the convenience of the Disney Skyliner transportation system. The resort, the first Moderate Resort at Disney World, has undergone substantial reimagining, enhancing its amenities and design.

It features the Fuentes del Morro feature pool, reminiscent of a Spanish fort, adding a fun pirate element. The resort’s sprawling layout provides a true “resort” feel with lush greenery and spacious areas, though it can make for longer walks to amenities.

Dining options include Sebastian’s Bistro, praised for its value, and the proximity to Disney’s Riviera Resort adds more dining and amenity options.

12. Port Orleans Riverside

Port Orleans Riverside is a moderate resort at Walt Disney World themed to rural Louisiana. It offers a picturesque setting with its Alligator Bayou and Magnolia Bend areas, providing distinct thematic experiences.

The resort is known for its beautiful landscaping and romantic atmosphere, ideal for strolls along the Sassagoula River. While Boatwright’s Dining Hall, the resort’s table service restaurant, is highly regarded, it wasn’t immediately reopened post-pandemic.

The resort also offers other dining options like the Riverside Mill Food Court and River Roost Lounge. The main pool is located on Ol’ Man Island, surrounded by a playground. The resort’s rooms have been updated, offering a fresh and modern look while maintaining the thematic charm.

13. Beach Club Resort

Disney’s Beach Club Resort, with its seaside theme, offers an inviting atmosphere reminiscent of upscale beach cottages. Its location between EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios provides excellent park accessibility.

The resort boasts one of Disney’s best pools, Stormalong Bay, and offers various room types with elegant seaside-inspired decor. Dining options include Cape May Cafe and Beaches and Cream Soda Shop, among others.

The resort is popular for its tranquil environment, recreational activities, and convenient transportation options, including boat services and proximity to the Skyliner station.

14. Grand Floridian Resort and Spa

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa is the epitome of luxury and elegance at Walt Disney World. This Victorian-themed resort exudes sophistication and charm, making it a top choice for an extra magical vacation.

Guests are treated to sumptuous accommodations, fine dining experiences, and world-class service. The resort’s proximity to the Magic Kingdom and its monorail access enhance the Disney experience.

The Grand Floridian also features a full-service spa, multiple pools, and activities that cater to both adults and children, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and Disney magic.

15. All-Star Movies Resort

Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort is a value resort that brings the magic of Disney films to life. Themed around popular Disney movies, it offers an immersive and fun experience, especially for families and young guests.

The resort features larger-than-life statues of beloved Disney characters, adding to its unique appeal. While it is budget-friendly, the resort doesn’t skimp on essential amenities, providing comfortable accommodations, themed pools, and a variety of dining options.

Its vibrant atmosphere and movie-themed decor make it an ideal choice for guests seeking a whimsical and cost-effective Disney vacation.

16. Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa

Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa, inspired by a historic New York retreat, offers a deluxe villa experience at Walt Disney World. The resort’s recent multi-year enhancement has modernized guest rooms and added functional improvements.

Saratoga Springs features a range of accommodations from studios to grand villas, including unique treehouse villas. The resort’s proximity to Disney Springs is a significant draw, providing guests with easy access to a variety of dining and entertainment options.

With its modern amenities, variety of pools, and sprawling layout, Saratoga Springs offers a mix of tranquility and convenience​.

17. Riviera Resort

Disney’s Riviera Resort is a unique blend of modern European luxury and classic Disney charm. This Disney Vacation Club property offers a diverse range of accommodations, including studios, villas, and grand villas.

The resort’s design, inspired by Europe, is a mix of elegant, contemporary features with a touch of old-world glamour. Guests can enjoy original artwork and a range of dining options, including Topolino’s Terrace, which offers a renowned character breakfast and signature dining experience.

The Riviera Resort also benefits from convenient transportation, with the Disney Skyliner gondola route adjacent to the resort, providing easy access to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Despite some criticisms of its exterior design and location, the resort’s interiors, dining quality, and transportation facilities make it a strong contender for a magical Disney vacation.

18. Animal Kingdom Lodge

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge offers a unique and immersive cultural experience, bringing the beauty and spirit of Africa to Walt Disney World. The resort is set around a savannah, home to over 30 species of African wildlife, allowing guests to view animals from many rooms and public areas.

This deluxe resort, divided into Jambo House and Kidani Village, also provides a stunning collection of African art and exotic cuisine. The design and decor of the lodge are inspired by African art and architecture, offering various views including standard, pool, and savanna.

The resort boasts enriching cultural activities, multiple dining options like Boma and Jiko, and two pools. Its remote location enhances the immersive experience but requires reliance on bus transportation for park access​​

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best hotel at Disney World for an extra magical vacation comes down to personal preferences and needs.

Whether seeking luxurious sophistication, enchanting themes, or budget-friendly options, Disney World offers a diverse range of accommodations that cater to various tastes and requirements.

Each hotel boasts unique features and amenities that enhance the Disney experience, ensuring that every stay is memorable. The key is to find a balance between comfort, convenience, theme, and budget, ensuring that your choice not only complements but also elevates your magical Disney adventure.