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Disney World Resorts Ranked: My Top Picks

Disney World Resorts Ranked: My Top Picks

Hotel
- 07/09/2024
-8:10 AM
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- by Jacky

Disney World Resorts Ranked – I’ve spent many years enjoying the magic of Disney World’s resort hotels. In this guide, I’ll share my top picks for the best Disney World resorts. I’ll cover everything from budget-friendly options to luxurious stays. This will help you pick the perfect place for your Disney trip¹.

Disney World has something for everyone, from cozy, affordable stays to luxurious experiences. Let’s explore the best resorts together. I’ll show you the hidden gems that make a Disney World vacation special²³.

Table of Contents

Introduction to Disney World Resort Rankings

Choosing the right Disney World resort can make your vacation magical. As a Disney fan, I’ve looked into all the options to help you pick the best one for you. I’ve considered things like theme, amenities, location, and more to make sure you get great value for your money⁴⁵.

Factors Considered in the Rankings

I looked at several important things to see how good a Disney resort is. These include the theme, pool, dining, and how easy it is to get around. I also thought about the location and if it’s a good deal for the price.

Approach to Ranking the Resorts

To rank the Disney World resorts, I used a detailed system. It looked at both facts and what people think⁶. I checked things like how happy guests are, how easy it is to get around, and the food options. This way, I could give you the best advice for your Disney trip, whether it’s your first or you’ve been many times.

Pop Century Resort: The Budget-Friendly Favorite

The Pop Century Resort is a top pick for Disney World stays. It’s great because the Disney Skyliner takes you easily to Epcot and Hollywood Studios. These parks have some of the best rides and attractions⁷. This means guests can quickly visit these parks for more fun.

Pop Century Resort also has very affordable prices, with rooms costing between $183 to $392 per night in 2024⁸. It’s perfect for those watching their budget but still wanting Disney World magic. The rooms are simple but clean and comfy, making it easy on the wallet.

Functional Rooms and Dining Options

Value Resorts like Pop Century offer a unique experience compared to Moderate and Deluxe Resorts⁷. Standard rooms can fit up to 4 adults and have the same amenities as other Value Resorts⁸. The theming might not be as detailed, but the rooms are clean and practical for your Disney trip.

For dining, Pop Century has quick-service options so you can eat without needing a reservation⁸. The food court has a variety of tasty and affordable food for everyone’s taste and dietary needs.

In short, the Pop Century Resort is a great choice for those looking for a budget-friendly Disney World stay. It offers easy Skyliner access, affordable rates, and practical rooms. It’s clear why it’s a favorite among those saving money⁷⁹⁸.

Polynesian Village Resort: Deluxe Tropical Paradise

The Polynesian Village Resort is a top choice for a deluxe stay at Disney World¹⁰. Since opening in 1971, it has been a favorite spot for many¹⁰. The latest updates, inspired by Moana, have made the rooms even better. They now have modern decor that fits the Polynesian theme perfectly.

Newly Renovated Moana-Inspired Rooms

The rooms at the Polynesian Village Resort have been completely updated¹⁰. They include Duo Studios, Deluxe Studios, Bungalows, and Villas. Each room has a Moana theme, making guests feel like they’re in the Disney movie. They’re perfect for different group sizes, sleeping up to 9 adults¹⁰.

Amenities: Trader Sam’s, Pool, and Magic Kingdom Views

The resort has many great features¹¹. Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto is a fun spot for tropical drinks and entertainment. The pool area is huge, offering a fun waterpark feel¹¹. And, the views of the Magic Kingdom and fireworks are amazing.

Looking for a deluxe tropical vacation or a family trip to Disney? The Polynesian Village Resort is the perfect choice¹². With its updated Moana rooms, great amenities, and great location, it’s a magical place to stay¹².

Gran Destino Tower at Coronado Springs: Modern Luxury

The Gran Destino Tower at Coronado Springs Resort is a top choice for modern luxury¹³. It offers a deluxe experience but at a moderate price, making it great for those wanting luxury without the high cost¹³.

Upscale Accommodations and Dining

The rooms and suites in the Gran Destino Tower are spacious and stylish¹³. They come with modern comforts and elegant furnishings¹³. The tower also has top-notch dining options for all tastes¹³.

Looking for a fancy meal or something casual? The Gran Destino Tower has it all¹³. It’s a perfect mix of modern and Disney magic, offering luxury at a good price¹³.

Wilderness Lodge: Rustic Charm and Deluxe Amenities

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is set in a peaceful wilderness, blending rustic charm with deluxe comforts¹⁴. The lobby’s towering fireplace and wooden details bring to mind a cozy, wilderness feel¹⁵. It’s conveniently located, with a score of 6/10 for transport and 7/10 for proximity¹⁵. The dining score of 8/10 and Swanky Factor of 8/10 highlight its top-notch food and upscale vibe¹⁵.

Iconic Lobby and Exceptional Dining

The lobby at Wilderness Lodge is inspired by the grand lodges of the American Northwest. It welcomes guests with a massive stone fireplace, detailed wooden carvings, and a rustic elegance that sets the mood for their stay¹⁴. The dining options are just as impressive, offering a range of signature restaurants and lounges for all tastes¹⁵.

Reasonably Priced Deluxe Option

Despite being a deluxe resort, the Wilderness Lodge is priced reasonably compared to others¹⁶. Deluxe resorts at Walt Disney World start around $465 per night, and the Wilderness Lodge is within this range¹⁶. Guests get to enjoy deluxe perks like extended park hours, early entry, and various transport options without spending too much¹⁶.

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge offers the perfect mix of rustic charm and deluxe comforts¹⁴. Whether you want a cozy getaway or a luxurious vacation, this resort is a top choice for an unforgettable Disney experience¹⁵.

disney world resorts ranked: The Boardwalk Area Advantage

The Boardwalk area resorts at Disney World are a top choice for many. The Boardwalk Inn, Yacht Club, and Beach Club resorts are great for guests who want easy access to Epcot and Hollywood Studios¹⁷.

Walking Access to Epcot and Hollywood Studios

These resorts let guests walk to Epcot and Hollywood Studios easily. You don’t need to use Disney’s buses or boats to get there¹⁷. The Boardwalk Inn is close to Epcot, just a 15-minute walk away. Hollywood Studios is also within walking distance¹⁷.

Vibrant Boardwalk Atmosphere

The Boardwalk area resorts are known for their lively atmosphere. The Boardwalk is a place full of life, with restaurants, shops, and entertainment¹⁷. Guests can enjoy a leisurely walk along the Boardwalk, taking in the sights and sounds¹⁷.

The Boardwalk area resorts are perfect for those who want a great Disney World experience¹⁷. With their great location, easy access to parks, and fun Boardwalk, they are a top pick¹⁷. The Boardwalk Inn, Yacht Club, and Beach Club resorts offer a mix of convenience, fun, and magic¹⁷.

Animal Kingdom Lodge: An African Safari Adventure

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge gives guests a special experience, feeling like an African safari in the U.S. The resort’s design, with high ceilings and African decor, makes for a memorable stay¹⁸.

Unique Wildlife Encounters

The lodge is known for its chance to see African wildlife up close. Over 200 animals and birds roam free on the savannas, visible from rooms and viewing decks¹⁹. Guests can book a nighttime safari to see animals at night with night vision goggles¹⁸.

Authentic African Dining Experiences

The lodge also offers dining that feels like Africa. It has some of Disney World’s top restaurants, with a menu of meats, vegetarian dishes, and African cuisine¹⁸. Sanaa restaurant has savanna views, making meals feel like an adventure²⁰.

There’s more to do than just eat and see animals. The lodge has pools, a gym, and cultural activities like drumming and storytelling¹⁸.

The lodge’s African design, wildlife, and food make it a standout Disney resort¹⁸. It’s perfect for those wanting to see animals up close or taste African food. It’s an adventure for the whole family¹⁹.

The lodge is priced well, starting at about $470 a night¹⁸. It has various rooms, including suites with savanna views. It’s a great deal for those wanting a deluxe Disney experience¹⁸. Plus, it’s close to the Animal Kingdom park and offers Disney perks like Early Theme Park Entry¹⁸.

The Animal Kingdom Lodge is a unique Disney resort with an unforgettable African safari feel. It has amazing wildlife, real African food, and lots of activities. It’s a top choice for any Disney fan looking for a special vacation¹⁹.

Contemporary Resort: Iconic Monorail Resort

The Contemporary Resort has been a favorite at Disney World for years. It’s right next to the Magic Kingdom, making it super convenient for guests²¹. This makes it a top choice for those who love being close to the action.

Proximity to Magic Kingdom

The Contemporary Resort has a special monorail station right inside the hotel. This means guests can easily hop on the monorail and head straight to the Magic Kingdom. It’s a quick trip, taking just a few minutes to get to the park’s entrance²¹. It’s perfect for those who want to spend more time enjoying the attractions.

Recently Renovated Rooms and Dining

The Contemporary Resort has also gotten a fresh new look. Guests can enjoy modern rooms and a variety of dining spots. The California Grill offers amazing views of the Magic Kingdom, while Chef Mickey’s is great for families²².