Planning a Disney World vacation is an exciting journey, but selecting the perfect Disney World resort for your family can be overwhelming with so many options. Don’t fret! I'll guide you step by step to help you choose the ideal Disney World resort that will make your family's trip magical and memorable.
Explore the Disney World Resort Options: Value, Moderate, and Deluxe
Disney World offers a variety of resorts, each categorized into Value, Moderate, and Deluxe. Understanding what each category offers can help you make an informed decision that suits your family’s needs and budget.
Value Resorts: Affordable and Fun
Overview of Value Resorts: These resorts are the most budget-friendly option, offering vibrant theming and basic amenities. They are perfect for families who plan to spend most of their time at the parks.
Popular Value Resorts: Consider Disney’s Pop Century Resort, Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort, or Disney’s Art of Animation Resort.
Pros and Cons: Value resorts offer affordability and fun theming, but rooms may be smaller, and amenities are more basic compared to other categories.
Moderate Resorts: A Balance of Comfort and Cost
Overview of Moderate Resorts: Moderate resorts strike a balance between cost and comfort. They offer more detailed theming, larger rooms, and additional amenities like table service restaurants and more extensive pool areas.
Popular Moderate Resorts: Explore options like Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort, or Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort.
Pros and Cons: Moderate resorts provide a great mix of value and luxury, but they can still be pricier than Value resorts and might require more transportation time to the parks.
Deluxe Resorts: Luxury and Convenience
Overview of Deluxe Resorts: Deluxe resorts are the epitome of luxury at Disney World, offering prime locations, immersive theming, and top-notch amenities such as fine dining, spa services, and exceptional pool areas.
Popular Deluxe Resorts: Consider Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, or Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort.
Pros and Cons: While Deluxe resorts offer unparalleled luxury and convenience, they come with a higher price tag, making them an investment in your vacation experience.
Set a Budget and Look for Discounts
Establishing a budget is crucial when planning your Disney World vacation, as it will help you narrow down your Disney World resort options. Here’s how to effectively manage your budget and find the best deals.
Understanding Disney World Resort Pricing
Factors Influencing Pricing: Prices for Disney World resorts vary based on factors such as the resort category, time of year, and even specific days of the week.
Peak vs. Off-Peak Pricing: Booking during off-peak seasons (such as late January or early September) can result in significant savings compared to peak holiday periods.
Tips for Finding Discounts
Keep an Eye on Promotions: Disney frequently offers promotions, such as discounted room rates or free dining plans. Sign up for Disney’s email alerts or follow Disney travel blogs to stay updated on these offers.
Flexible Dates: If your travel dates are flexible, use tools like Disney’s calendar to find the most affordable dates for your stay.
Consider Travel Packages: Sometimes bundling your hotel stay with park tickets or dining plans can lead to additional savings. Explore these options through Disney or trusted travel agents.
Planning for Additional Costs
Account for Extra Expenses: Remember to include potential costs like transportation, dining, and souvenirs when setting your budget. This will give you a more accurate picture of your total vacation cost.
Hidden Fees to Consider: Be aware of resort fees/parking fees (non-Disney resorts), and any add-ons you might need, like stroller rentals or transportation from the airport.
Consider the Vibe and Theming: What Makes You Feel Most Relaxed?
The atmosphere of a Disney World resort plays a big role in how enjoyable and relaxing your stay will be. Each resort has its unique vibe and theming, so consider what will make your family feel the most at home.
Theming That Speaks to Your Family
Character-Themed Resorts: Resorts like Disney’s Art of Animation feature larger-than-life characters and immersive themes that can be particularly appealing to young children and Disney enthusiasts.
Nature-Themed Resorts: If your family enjoys the outdoors, consider resorts like Disney’s Wilderness Lodge or Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, where you can be surrounded by nature and wildlife.
Relaxed and Tranquil Resorts: For a more peaceful vibe, explore resorts like Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa, which offer a more laid-back, serene atmosphere.
Narrowing Down Your Options
List Your Top Three: After considering the theming and atmosphere, narrow your choices down to your top three Disney World resorts. Think about what will bring your family the most joy and relaxation during your stay.
Consult the Family: Involve the entire family in the decision-making process. Sometimes kids have strong preferences for certain themes, and their excitement can make a difference in your overall experience.
The Final Decision: Choosing Your Resort
Weigh the Pros and Cons: Once you’ve narrowed down your options, weigh the pros and cons of each Disney World resort to make your final decision. Consider factors like theming, location, and available amenities.
Trust Your Instincts: Ultimately, trust your gut feeling. Choose the Disney World resort that you believe will make your family’s vacation magical and unforgettable.
Check the Activities Available: Would You Spend a Full Day at the Resort?
A well-chosen Disney World resort offers more than just a place to sleep; it’s a destination in itself. Check the activities and amenities available to ensure your resort can provide a fun and relaxing experience even on non-park days.
Resort Pools and Water Fun
Elaborate Pool Areas: Many Disney World resorts feature pools with water slides, splash zones, and even lazy rivers. For example, Disney’s Beach Club Resort boasts Stormalong Bay, a mini water park in its own right.
Poolside Activities: Some resorts offer poolside activities like games, movies under the stars, and even character meet-and-greets. These activities can be a great way to relax and unwind without leaving the resort.
On-Site Dining Options
Casual and Fine Dining: Explore the on-site dining options at your chosen resort. Deluxe resorts like Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa offer fine dining experiences, while Value and Moderate resorts may have food courts and casual restaurants.
Character Dining: If your family loves meeting Disney characters, consider a resort that offers character dining experiences. This can be a highlight of your trip without having to visit the parks. (Consider adding an anchor link here to your post on “The Best Character Dining Experiences at Disney Resorts”)
Recreational Activities
Outdoor Adventures: Some resorts, like Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort, offer outdoor activities like horseback riding, canoeing, and fishing. These experiences can add a unique and adventurous element to your stay.
Fitness and Spa Services: For parents looking to unwind, consider resorts that offer fitness centers, spas, and wellness services. After a day at the parks, a massage or a quiet moment in the sauna can be just what you need.
Entertainment and Nightlife
Evening Entertainment: Some resorts offer evening entertainment, such as live music, campfire sing-alongs, or movies under the stars. Disney’s BoardWalk Inn, for example, features lively boardwalk entertainment, reminiscent of classic seaside towns.
Bars and Lounges: For adults, some resorts have themed bars and lounges where you can enjoy a nightcap or a specialty cocktail in a unique setting.
Think About Transportation: How Will You Get Around?
Transportation is a key factor in choosing a Disney World resort. The ease of getting to and from the parks can greatly impact your vacation experience.
Proximity to the Parks
Monorail Access: Resorts like Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, and Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa offer monorail access, making it incredibly easy to reach Magic Kingdom and Epcot.
Skyliner Convenience: Resorts connected to the Disney Skyliner, such as Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, Pop Century, Art of Animation, and Disney’s Riviera Resort, provide quick and scenic transportation to Epcot and Hollywood Studios.
Boat and Bus Transportation: Many resorts offer boat and bus transportation to the parks. While buses are available at all resorts, the convenience and frequency can vary, so consider how much time you’re willing to spend in transit.
The Impact on Your Daily Schedule
Morning Commutes: Consider how early you plan to arrive at the parks each day. Resorts with direct transportation options can save you precious time, especially during busy mornings.
Midday Breaks: If you plan to take midday breaks at your resort, proximity to the parks becomes even more important. Resorts with quick transportation options make it easier to return to your room for a nap or a swim.
Planning for Off-Park Days
Resort Day Transportation: If you plan on spending a day at your resort, check out what type of free transportation is offered to places like Disney Springs, Typhoon Lagoon, or Blizzard Beach. This can add variety to your stay without needing to enter the parks.
Evaluate Room Size and Layout: Does It Suit Your Family?
Choosing the right room size and layout is essential, especially if you have a large family or young children. Here’s how to ensure your room at your Disney World resort meets your family’s needs.
Understanding Room Types and Sizes
Standard Rooms: Most Value and Moderate resorts offer standard rooms with two queen beds or one king bed, suitable for up to four guests.
Suites and Villas: For larger families or those seeking more space, consider suites at Moderate resorts or villas at Deluxe resorts. These options often include separate living areas, multiple bedrooms, and even kitchenettes.
Accessible Rooms: If you have specific needs, Disney World resorts offer accessible rooms with features like roll-in showers, lower beds, and additional space for mobility devices.
Room Layout and Amenities
Sleeping Arrangements: Consider whether your family would benefit from a suite or villa with separate sleeping areas. This can be particularly useful for families with young children who need early bedtimes.
In-Room Amenities: Some Deluxe villas offer full kitchens, laundry facilities, and extra bathrooms, which can make your stay more comfortable and convenient. Even if you don’t plan to cook, having a kitchen can be a great way to save money on breakfasts or snacks.
Proximity to Resort Amenities
Room Location: When booking your room at your Disney World resort, consider its location within the resort. Some families prefer to be near the pool or dining options, while others might prioritize being close to transportation.
View Options: Some resorts offer rooms with views of fireworks, lakes, or savannahs (in the case of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge). If these views are important to your experience, be sure to request them when booking.
Q&A: Your Disney World Resort Questions Answered
Q: How far in advance should I book a Disney World resort?
A: It’s best to book your Disney World resort as early as possible, especially if you have your heart set on a specific resort. Booking 6-12 months in advance can help you secure your top choice.
Q: Are there any benefits to staying at a Disney World resort?
A: Absolutely! Staying at a Disney World resort comes with perks like early park entry, complimentary transportation, and the convenience of being close to the parks.
Q: Can I change my resort after booking?
A: Yes, you can usually modify your reservation, depending on availability. However, changes might be subject to additional fees, so it’s best to choose carefully from the start.
Q: What if I have a large family or group?
A: Disney World offers accommodations for larger groups, including family suites, connecting rooms, and villas at some Deluxe resorts.
Q: What if my plans change? Can I cancel my reservation?
A: Disney allows cancellations or modifications, typically up to 30 days before your trip without penalty. However, policies can vary, so it’s essential to read the terms and conditions when booking.
Choosing the perfect Disney World resort for your family is an essential step in planning a magical vacation. By exploring the different resort options, setting a budget, considering the vibe and theming, and evaluating the activities and amenities, you can find the resort that best suits your family's needs.
Remember to think about transportation, room layout, and any special considerations that will make your stay more comfortable. With careful planning and a little Disney magic, your resort will become a home away from home, setting the stage for unforgettable memories on your Disney World adventure. Whether you're looking for luxury, convenience, or just a fun and immersive experience, there's a Disney World resort that's perfect for your family.
If you are having trouble deciding which resort would be best for your next vacation, be sure to grab our FREE Disney Resort Decision Quiz. We put together this fun quiz to help you narrow your choices and pick a resort matching your vacation style.
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