Which Disney World Resort is Right for You? A Complete Guide to Value, Moderate, Deluxe, & Villa Stays
- Juliann McGowan
- May 1
- 4 min read
Why I Always Recommend Staying On-Site at Walt Disney World
I always recommend staying on-site at Walt Disney World—and with over 25 unique Disney resorts to choose from, there’s truly something for every family. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the different Disney resort categories (Value, Moderate, Deluxe, and Villas) to help you decide where to stay at Disney World.
Value Resorts at Disney World
Disney Value Resorts are the most budget-friendly hotel option on property. If you're simply looking for a place to crash after a fun day in the parks, this category might be perfect for you.
All Value Resorts at Disney World include pools, a pool bar, a food court, and exterior entrances to the rooms. The theming is “larger-than-life” and super playful—think oversized characters and bright colors—which kids absolutely love!
Most rooms sleep up to 4 guests, but family suites (available at select resorts) offer more space for larger groups. Transportation is primarily via Disney buses, except for a couple of Value Resorts with Skyliner access.
💰 Average Price: $157–$350 per night
🌟 My Top Pick: Disney’s Pop Century Resort – You get the value pricing plus Skyliner access, which is a major upgrade in Disney transportation convenience!
Resorts Included:
All-Star Movies
All-Star Sports
All-Star Music
Art of Animation
Pop Century Resort
Moderate Disney Resorts Overview
Moderate Resorts at Disney World offer a step up in terms of space, theming, and amenities. They feature larger rooms than the Value Resorts, waterslides at the pools, and playgrounds for the little ones. Some even include table-service restaurants—so you’re not just limited to quick-service dining.
Most Moderate Resorts still have exterior room entrances, with the exception of the Gran Destino Tower at Coronado Springs, which offers interior hallways. These resorts are often quite large and may have internal bus systems, so be prepared for longer travel times around the resort.
💰 Average Price: $285–$540 per night
🌴 My Favorite: Caribbean Beach Resort – The tropical vibes and Skyliner access make it a standout!
Resorts Included:
Caribbean Beach
Coronado Springs
Port Orleans Riverside
Port Orleans French Quarter
Deluxe Disney Resorts: Where Luxury Meets Magic
Deluxe Resorts at Disney World are exactly what they sound like—luxurious and full of amenities. These are ideal if you're planning to spend more time at your hotel or want a more elevated experience.
You’ll find multiple dining options, stunning pools, splash pads, interior room entrances, and beautiful theming. Many Deluxe Resorts are within walking distance of at least one Disney theme park, and others offer monorail, boat, or Skyliner access.
💰 Starting Price: Around $500+ per night (some suites can exceed $1,000, depending on season and room type)✨ Bonus: Deluxe Resort guests also enjoy extended evening hours at select parks on select nights!
🌟 My Favorite: BoardWalk Inn – I love the charm of the BoardWalk area, the easy access to both EPCOT and Hollywood Studios, and the fun nighttime atmosphere. You truly feel like you're in the middle of the magic while still enjoying a relaxed, upscale vibe.
Resorts Included:
BoardWalk Inn
Beach Club
Yacht Club
Riviera Resort
Old Key West
Saratoga Springs
Animal Kingdom Lodge
Contemporary Resort
Polynesian Village Resort
Grand Floridian
Wilderness Lodge
Deluxe Villas at Disney World: Home Away from Home
Deluxe Villas at Disney World are perfect if you’re looking for a more “home away from home” experience. Villas come in studio, 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, and even 3-bedroom layouts—making them great for larger families or guests who prefer extra space and home-style amenities.
These resorts are typically part of the same locations as Deluxe Resorts, so you get all the same perks, plus the added comfort of more room and upgraded accommodations.
🌟 My Favorite: BoardWalk Villas – Just like the Inn, the BoardWalk Villas are my top pick for the unbeatable location, vibrant atmosphere, and convenience of walking to two theme parks. It combines the comforts of home with all the magic of Disney!
Resorts Included:
Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Boulder Ridge Villas & Copper Creek Villas and Cabins at Wilderness Lodge
Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House & Kidani Village
Beach Club Villas
BoardWalk Villas
Villas at Grand Floridian
Saratoga Springs Resort
Old Key West Resort
Riviera Resort
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Disney World Resort
Every resort category at Walt Disney World offers something a little different, and the right choice depends on your family's budget, priorities, and travel style. From Value Resorts to Deluxe Villas, there’s truly a Disney resort for everyone.
Let this breakdown be your guide—and when you're ready to book your dream Disney vacation, I’m here to help you find the perfect home base for your magical adventure!
🎟️ Let's create your perfect Disney Vacation - tailored just for you and your family. 👉 Click here to get your free, no obligation quote - and let the magic begin!
With pixie dust and planning magic,
Julie
Dream Along with Julie Vacations
📱 TikTok: @DreamAlongwithJulie 📸 Instagram: @DreamAlongwithJulieVacations
Comments