5 Disney Resorts I Love (And Why You Might Love Them Too)

One of the most common questions I get is, “What are your favorite Disney Resorts?” I totally get it -choosing the right Disney Resort is a big decision! The one you pick sets the tone for your entire trip.

While I can give you tons of suggestions, the truth is that my favorites may not be the best fit for you. Everyone has different preferences when it comes to style, budget, and what they want out of their Disney experience.

That’s why I’ve put together this list of my personal top 5 Disney Resorts.

Each one is special to me for different reasons – but I’m also addressing why they might not be the right choice for you.

By sharing both the highlights and potential downsides, I hope it helps you choose a Resort that not only falls within your budget, but also gives you the most magical experience possible.

Art Of Animation

If you’re looking for a Value Resort that has a lot of fun and character, Art of Animation could be the perfect fit for you. With its vibrant décor, spacious rooms, and direct access to the Skyliner, it’s packed with great features for families.

Why It’s One of My Favorite Disney Resorts

Art of Animation is like stepping into a Disney movie. Walking through the different sections feels like you’re part of the film. Whether you choose to stay in The Little Mermaid, Lion King, Finding Nemo, or Cars area, each is just as immersive as the next. The whole Resort just screams “fun.”

The Family Suites are a big win for families with 5 or 6 people. Instead of booking two separate rooms, you get a spacious suite that fits everyone. It has 2 bathrooms, a kitchenette, and a separate bedroom (which is awesome if you have a little one who still naps).

And the best part? You have direct access to the Skyliner! If you have a stroller, the Skyliner is a game changer. For one – You don’t need to fold up your stroller! You can just roll right in! If you’ve ever had to remove a sleeping toddler, diaper bags and souvenirs, fold up your stroller, and attempt to hold everything without spilling popcorn on the bus floor, you’ll understand why families of small kids are choosing Disney Resorts on the skyliner line.

Why It May Not Work For You

While Art of Animation has a lot to offer, it’s not for everyone. If you’re looking for a quiet place to relax by the pool, this might not be the place for you. You might find the bright colors, oversized characters, and busy pools a bit much for your liking. Value Resorts attract families with children more than any other Resort category. So while it’s possible to find some quieter areas at the Resort, as a whole, it’s not the place to be if you’re looking for some peace and quiet.

Also, while the Family Suites are fantastic for larger families, they do come with a higher price. If you’re traveling on a budget, you might want to consider whether it’s worth the extra cost when there are other, more affordable, options.

Polynesian Village Resort

If you’re dreaming of a tropical escape without leaving Walt Disney World, the Polynesian Village Resort might just be your paradise. This Deluxe Resort brings the beauty of the South Pacific to life with its lush landscaping, tiki torches, and laid-back vibe.

Why It’s One of My Favorite Disney Resorts

The Polynesian Village Resort is one of the most iconic Disney Resorts—and for good reason. From the moment you walk in, it feels like you’ve stepped into another world. It’s the perfect place to unwind and relax after a day in the Parks.

The Pesort is also home to one of the most popular restaurants on property, ‘Ohana. And if you’re a fan of cocktails, the Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto is a must-visit. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to order a drink and just enjoy the atmosphere.

You also can’t beat the location! It’s right on the monorail loop, so getting to Magic Kingdom is quick and easy. Plus, there’s a private beach where you can watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks from a distance—without the crowds!

Why It May Not Work For You

Location and amenities make the Polynesian one of the priciest options on Disney property. If you’re on a budget, the cost of staying here may not make sense, especially when there are other Disney Resorts that also offer easy access to the Parks.

Another thing to consider is it’s also one of the busier Resorts on Disney property. As I mentioned before, the Polynesian Village Resort is one of the most iconic Disney Resorts. So, many Guests visit the Resort for may reasons – even when they’re not staying there. This means that you’ll find more crowds in certain areas—especially in the lobby, around the restaurants, and on the beach at night.

Port Orleans – Riverside

If you’re looking for a laid-back, charming spot to stay that feels like an escape from the Park crowds, Port Orleans Riverside might be the perfect place for you. This Resort has a cozy, Southern vibe, with beautiful views along the Sassagoula River. It’s peaceful and relaxed, making it a great place to unwind.

Why It’s One of My Favorite Disney Resorts

What I love about Port Orleans Riverside is how it combines a relaxed atmosphere with some great features. The Resort has two different areas—Magnolia Bend (which feels more refined) and Alligator Bayou (which has a more rustic, cabin-like vibe). You can choose whichever one fits your style!

It’s also perfect for families of 5 because they have rooms with a 5th sleeper bed. If you’ve got a family of 5, this is awesome because it saves you from booking two rooms. It’s just an easy, affordable option – especially at a Moderate Resort.

Another great thing about Riverside is the boat ride to Disney Springs. If you’re in the mood for shopping, eating, or just wandering around, you can take the boat over there and skip the bus. It’s a nice bonus!

Why It May Not Work For You

While Riverside has a lot to offer, it may not be the best fit if you’re looking for quick access to the Parks. There’s no monorail or Skyliner here, so you’ll be relying on buses to get around. And with multiple stops (including a possible stop at Port Orleans French Quarter during the day), this can be a downside – especially if you’re in a hurry or want to get to the Parks as quickly as possible.

Another thing to consider is that Riverside is a very large Resort. If you’re placed in one of the farther buildings, you could end up with a long walk to the main building. While it’s not a deal-breaker for some, if you’re traveling with young kids or elderly family members, this could be a concern.

Animal Kingdom Lodge

If you’ve always dreamed of staying on a safari, Animal Kingdom Lodge brings that experience right to you! This Resort gives you the chance to stay in the middle of an African savanna – with exotic animals like giraffes, zebras, and antelopes just outside your window. It’s one of the most unique places to stay on Disney property. And it’s perfect for animal lovers or anyone looking for a totally different experience.

Why It’s One of My Favorite Disney Resorts

Animal Kingdom Lodge is something special. The African-inspired decor is stunning, and you can spend hours just exploring the Resort.

But the real magic happens outside. With views of the savanna, you’ll feel like you’re on an African safari right from your balcony. It’s pretty amazing to wake up in the morning and spot animals just walking around.

On top of that, Animal Kingdom Lodge is home to some of Disney’s best dining. The Boma buffet is a must-try, especially if you’re a fan of African-inspired dishes. If you’re in the mood for a more upscale experience, Jiko is an amazing option for a special night out.

Why It May Not Work For You

While Animal Kingdom Lodge is incredible, it’s not for everyone. For one, it’s a bit out of the way. You’ll need to take a bus or drive to the Parks. If you’re planning to spend a lot of time at the Parks, this could be a downside.

Also, like I mentioned earlier, some rooms have amazing views of the animals. But those Savanna Views come at a higher price. If you’re on a tight budget, you can still enjoy the Resort. But you might want to consider a standard room instead of one with a savanna view. Sometimes you get lucky and you can see the Savannah from a standard room anyway.

Lastly, Animal Kingdom Lodge is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of other Resorts. If that’s what you’re looking for, you’ll love this Resort. But if you’re someone who loves to be in the middle of the action, this might not be the place for you.

Pop Century

If you’re looking for a fun, budget-friendly place that brings a little nostalgia to your trip, you’ll love Pop Century. It’s got this quirky retro vibe with huge icons from the ’50s to the ’90s—think giant jukeboxes, over-the-top toy blocks, and colorful details. It’s like stepping into a time machine and cruising through pop culture history.

Why It’s One of My Favorite Disney Resorts

What I love about Pop Century is how fun and lively it is without being too over the top. Each section of the Resort takes you back to a different decade, without being overwhelming. Whether you’re reminiscing about the ‘60s or ‘90s, it’s a fun trip down memory lane with bold colors and iconic pop culture details.

One of the best things about Pop Century is its access to the Skyliner. Since it shares a station with Art of Animation, getting to both Epcot and Hollywood Studios is super easy. If you plan on spending a lot of time at those Parks, the Skyliner is a major perk.

And let’s not forget about the pools. The Hippy Dippy pool is the main one and definitely has the most energy. With a cool flower-shaped design and activities that keep kids busy during the day, it’s always a fun time. If you’re in the mood for a little more peace and quiet, there are smaller pools around the Resort for a more relaxed vibe.

Why It May Not Work For You

While Pop Century is perfect for families and those who like a lot of energy, it’s not the most relaxing Resort. If you’re looking for a calm, quiet retreat after your Park days, this might not be the right place for you. Beecause of it’s lower cost and lively atmosphere, it’s great for families with kids. But, it’s not a Resort you think of when you’re looking for peace and quiet.

Pop Century is a Value Resort, which means smaller rooms and fewer amenities compared to Moderate and Deluxe Resorts. If you’re ok with the basics, Pop Century is a great choice. But, if you need more space or prefer luxury features, you might want to look elsewhere.

Lastly, while the Skyliner is a huge perk, it doesn’t go to all the Parks. You’ll still need to rely on buses to Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom. If you’re looking for a Resort that’s closer to everything, Pop Century may feel a little out of the way for you.

Still Struggling To Choose A Resort?

Choosing the right Disney Resort can feel like a big decision—after all, it’s where you’ll create lasting memories with your family. It’s totally normal to feel a little lost when there are so many great options to consider. But trust me, the perfect Resort is out there for you.

As a Travel Advisor, I’m here to take that stress off your shoulders. Together, we’ll find the Resort that fits your family’s needs and get you excited for your upcoming vacation.

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