Top 10 Walt Disney World Resorts

One of the only downsides to Disney parks is that they’re not all within walking distance for every single person on planet Earth. As a result, this is where their world renown resorts come in. Disney is known for many things, and guest experience is at the top of that list. So while none of these resorts are anything short of amazing, today we’re giving you the details on our top picks to help make your choice a little bit easier.

Here are our Top 10 Walt Disney World Resorts.

photo of Walt Disney World Cinderella's Castle lit up at night — credit: WDW News (David Roark, photographer)

10. Wildnerness Lodge and Campgrounds

One cool thing about Disney resorts are the variety. Love the wilderness theme? Good news, Disney has options for you and your fam. Check out the Delux Wildnerness Lodge Resort for cozy rooms amidst the outdoor theme. However, maybe you’re feeling a little more rustic? Try the less pricey Campgrounds where you can rent a space and bring your own camper or recreational vehicle. Not quite that level of one with nature? No worries, the campgrounds have one bedroom cabins available too.

9. All Star Resorts

It’s no secret that Disney can get a little pricey. However, for those looking to save a little cash, check out any of the All Star Resorts. Disney has three to choose from: Music, Movies, and Sports, and they’re all value resorts still brimming with magic. Best of all? They’re all still on Disney property and have the advantages. Busses to and from the parks, incomparable staff, and décor that makes you feel like you’re in your own personal storybook.

8. Coronado Springs

Looking for something slightly more mature and less kid friendly? Coronado Springs is for you. This resort celebrates a theme of Mexican, Spanish, and Southwestern cultures to decorate the property. Rooms are divided between three villages, all surrounding a 22-acre man-made lake known as the Rings Lago Durado. Also featured are two lounges: Barcelona Lounge in the lobby for coffee and Dahlia on the roof serves drinks and appetizers. This is the perfect resort for a moderately priced, more mature experience at Disney.

7. Pop Century

Obsessed with pop culture? Welcome to paradise. This Disney value resort covers pop culture from the 1950’s to the 1990’s, and each section of the property displays a different decade. There are also three heated pools, though no slides or hot tubs. A Pop Century benefit? The resort has its own transportation bus to and from the parks, not shared with other resorts, which will cut down your waiting time significantly. Plus, the resort includes the Disney Skyliner, which allows guests to cruise through the sky in a gondola cabin connecting EPCOT and Hollywood Studios to the Pop Century Resort, Caribbean Beach Resort, Riviera Resort, and the Art of Animation Resort.

6. Art of Animation

Speaking of animation, welcome to Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. Opened in May 2012, this resort centers around the design of Disney classics like “The Little Mermaid,” “Cars,” “The Lion King,” and “Finding Nemo.” The Art of Animation is a value resort that takes guests through the process of animation. And drawings, sketches, and storyboards fill the atrium and hallways, along with splatters of ink and pencil markings. This is the place for creators young and old to feel at home.

5. Port Orleans

Straight out of Louisiana, Port Orleans brings the vibe to Disney with these two locations. Choose between the French Quarter or Riverside- both at WDW and special in their own way. Riverside stays a little more classic, holding tight to the building blocks of New Orleans culture, while the French Quarter celebrates Mardi Gras. The French Quarter is one of the most popular resorts at Disney especially among the moderately priced group.

4. Animal Kingdom Lodge

For the animal lovers galore, we’ve got you covered. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge will fulfil your every wish. Said to be one of the best themed resorts in the entire park, the Lodge keeps your attention 24 hours a day with animals roaming the grounds. But no worries- the animals are closely monitored by staff at every moment, and informational signs help keep you updated on the fun facts of every species. As a result, you may temporarily forget you’re at Disney and think this is an actual African safari- and you won’t be complaining.

3. Contemporary

Want a resort within walking distance to the Magic Kingdom? It doesn’t get any closer than a monorail literally riding through the main building. Disney’s Contemporary Resort is a classic staple, with the futuristic atmosphere providing a cool, crisp vibe. One of the best things about the Contemporary are its views: a good portion of the rooms face the Magic Kingdom. Also, others are in view of the Seven Seas Lagoon or Bay Lake, which displays the Electrical Water Pageant each night.

2. Grand Floridian

Yes, the very same one from that episode of “Full House.” Known as Disney’s “flagship resort” the Grand Floridian combines Victorian and modern day style to create a crisp, clean look that has become iconic with the park. Like the Contemporary, the monorail stops at the resort and will take you to the Magic Kingdom, the Transportation and Ticket Center, Contemporary Resort, and the Polynesian Resort. This is the place to go if you want a bit fancier of an experience, with some restaurants even including dress codes for a lavish night out Disney-style.

1. Polynesian

At the top spot, we have Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. One of the two original hotels that first opened in 1971, this South Pacific and tropical theme hotel has stood the test of time. And hands down, this is one of the most popular resorts in Disney history because of it’s popularity. But keep in mind that if planning to book your stay, your timetable will need to be flexible. With renovations under way, the Polynesian is currently being refurbished through Summer 2021. The design is said to include features inspired by Disney’s “Moana” as well as other new exciting surprises. But have no fear. We’re confident the wait will be more than worth it.