Disney World Resort Guide

Understanding Disney Resort Categories: Your Ultimate Family Planning Guide

Let’s be real—choosing the right Disney World resort can make or break your vacation. It’s not just about where you sleep—it’s about how you experience the magic, how fast you get to the parks, and how many meltdowns you can avoid along the way.

As a Disney-obsessed mom who’s booked all the resort types (and learned from a few mistakes), I’m here to give you the inside scoop on Disney resort categories. Whether you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip or looking to stretch your budget as far as possible, this guide will help you choose the perfect home base for your Disney adventure.

Disney Resort Categories: Breaking Down the Magic

Walt Disney World divides its on-site resorts into three main categories: Value, Moderate, and Deluxe. Each tier has its own vibe, pricing, and perks—so let’s dive in and see which one is right for your family.

Value Resorts: Budget-Friendly Magic

If you’re watching your wallet or just want a place to crash after long park days, value resorts are a great starting point.

 What You Get:

• Smallest rooms (approx. 260 sq ft)

• Loud and fun theming—think giant Disney characters, bold colors, and kid-friendly vibes

• Basic amenities like food courts and pools (no water slides)

• Mostly bus transportation, but a few offer access to the Disney Skyliner

✨ Popular Picks:

• Pop Century Resort – Fun 20th-century pop culture theming and Skyliner access

• Art of Animation Resort – Themed family suites (Cars, Lion King, Finding Nemo)

• All-Star Music, Movies, & Sports – Most budget-friendly, but also the most basic

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Best For:

• Families who plan to spend most of the day in the parks

• Budget-conscious travelers

• First-time Disney goers who want on-site perks without the splurge

Pro Mom Tip: Art of Animation’s family suites sleep six, have two bathrooms, and a separate bedroom—making them a fantastic deal for larger families!

Moderate Resorts: The Sweet Spot

Moderate resorts are the middle ground between budget and luxury. You’ll get upgraded theming, better dining options, and more room to breathe—without the deluxe price tag.

 What You Get:

• Larger rooms (around 314 sq ft)

• More subtle, immersive theming

• Better pools with water slides and splash zones

• Sit-down dining options, not just food courts

• Transportation upgrades like Skyliner or Monorail access(depending on the resort)

Popular Picks:

• Caribbean Beach Resort – Access to the Skyliner, Little Mermaid-themed rooms available

• Port Orleans Riverside & French Quarter – Gorgeous Southern theming, boat access to Disney Springs

• Coronado Springs Resort – A little more business-focused, but beautifully updated with deluxe-style touches

 Best For:

• Families wanting a mix of comfort and affordability

• Guests who enjoy downtime at the resort (great pools!)

• Families of five—look for “fifth sleeper” rooms

Pro Mom Tip: Port Orleans French Quarter is one of the quietest and most charming resorts—and the only one with Mickey beignets on-site!

Deluxe Resorts: The Premium Disney Experience

If you’re looking for top-tier luxury, unbeatable park access, and the full magical treatment, deluxe resorts are where it’s at.

 What You Get:

• Spacious rooms (400–440+ sq ft)

• Multiple dining options including signature restaurants

• Walking distance or monorail access to one or more parks

• Lush grounds, themed pools, and deluxe-level service

• Extra perks like extended evening hours for guests

 Popular Picks:

• Polynesian Village Resort – Stunning island theme and monorail access to Magic Kingdom

• Animal Kingdom Lodge – Wake up to giraffes outside your window!

• Beach Club Resort – Best pool on Disney property and walking distance to EPCOT

 Best For:

• Families who want to splurge for a big milestone (honeymoon, anniversary, graduation, etc.)

• Guests who value convenience and immersive theming

• Park lovers who want quick breaks mid-day

Pro Mom Tip: Beach Club’s pool, Stormalong Bay, is like a mini water park with a sand-bottom section, lazy river, and waterslides.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Disney Resort

1. Budget Considerations

Your resort choice can easily be the biggest factor in your total vacation cost. Here’s how each tier generally breaks down per night:

• Value: $150–$300

• Moderate: $300–$450

• Deluxe: $500–$1000+

Look at your overall trip goals. Are you celebrating something special or just trying to get the most Disney for your dollar?

2. Room Size & Sleeping Arrangements

Cramped quarters = cranky kids. Make sure your room fits your family comfortably.

• Value resorts: Fine for 4, tight for more; suites available at Art of Animation and All-Star Music

• Moderate resorts: Some rooms have a fifth sleeper (pull-down bed) for kids

• Deluxe resorts: Most spacious, plus villa and suite upgrades

3. Transportation Convenience

How you get to and from the parks matters more than you’d think—especially with little ones!

• Deluxe: Walk, boat, monorail, or Skyliner (varies by resort)

• Moderate: Mostly buses, but Caribbean Beach has Skyliner

• Value: Primarily buses; Pop Century and Art of Animation have Skyliner

Note: Only deluxe resorts offer walking access to parks like Magic Kingdom and EPCOT.

4. Amenities, Pools, and Dining

Not all pools and food courts are created equal.

• Value: Basic pools, no slides, limited food options

• Moderate: Themed pools with slides, more food variety

• Deluxe: Resort-style pools, splash areas, multiple dining options (including fine dining)

Pro Mom Tips for Resort Selection

Budget Hacks

• Travel during off-peak seasons (if you can stand the heat, August is one of the cheapest times to go)
• Look for Disney package deals
• Room-only rates vs. package rates
• Book during promotional periods

Insider Booking Strategies

• Book directly through Disney or a Disney travel agent for best cancellation policies
• Check for annual passholder or Disney Vacation Club discounts
• Consider room-only reservations for more flexibility

Common First-Timer Mistakes to Avoid

1. Booking based solely on price
2. Overlooking transportation logistics
3. Not considering room size for your family
4. Not checking for pool or restaurant closers
5. Not checking recent resort renovations

When to Splurge vs. When to Save

Splurge If:

• It’s a once-in-a-lifetime trip
• You’re celebrating a major milestone
• Park time will be limited
• You value resort amenities and theming

Save If:

• You’ll be in the parks most of the day
• Budget is tight
• You’re comfortable with basic accommodations
• Transportation isn’t a major concern

Final Thoughts: Your Disney Resort Sweet Spot

Here’s the thing—there’s no “one size fits all” answer when it comes to Disney resorts. The best choice is the one that works for your family’s needs, vacation style, and budget.

Forget what Instagram says. Focus on your crew, your priorities, and your magic. Whether you’re staying in a Little Mermaid room or waking up to giraffes at the Savannah, the memories you make will be priceless.

Quick Recommendation Cheat Sheet

Pro Tip: Always call Disney directly and speak with a representative or contact a Disney travel agent. We are free to use and often have current promotions not listed online and can help you find the best deal for your specific needs.

Happy planning, Disney families! May your magic be endless and your meltdowns minimal!

Want help choosing your resort? Drop your must-haves in the comments or reach out—I love helping fellow moms plan magical (and stress-free!) Disney adventures.