Wondering which Disney value resort is best?
Pop Century is hands down the best Disney World value resort. If you’re trying to save money but still want Disney magic, this is the resort to book.
The five Disney Value Resorts—Pop Century, Art of Animation, and the three All-Stars—are Disney World’s most budget-friendly stays. They’re ideal if you need a fun, themed place to sleep after a park day, with all the core Disney perks and none of the extra cost.
In this post, you’ll find all five Disney Value Resorts ranked—including why Pop Century is my top pick. I’ll cover what they have in common, what sets them apart, and which Disney Value resort is best for adults/couples, toddlers/young children, teens, large families, Budget-Conscious, and Park-Heavy Trips.
If you’re looking for more help planning your trip, make sure to check out my posts on The 8 Best Disney Resorts to Stay At, my Split Stay at Disney World Guide and Itinerary, and Disney Day Bag Packing List. If you’re planning a resort day or two and are not sure what to do, check out my post on Things to Do at Disney, Disney Resort Community Halls, Disney Resort Beaches, the Best Beaches Near Disney, and Disney World Resort Hopping.
Want deluxe-level perks at a value price? Look into renting Disney Vacation Club points. You can sometimes get a room at Animal Kingdom Lodge for $160, Old Key West for $180, or BoardWalk Inn for $210 during value season. That’s a serious upgrade for the price.
Go to my TikTok or YouTube channel for video tours of all the resorts, hidden gems, resort hopping itineraries, and more.
- Disney Value Resort Basics
- Why Pop Century Resort is the Best Disney Value Resort
- Pop Century vs. Art of Animation Comparison
- Disney Value Resorts Ranked
- Which Value Resort is Right for You?
- Maximizing Your Disney Value Resort Stay: Tips & Tricks
- Best Budget Hotels Near Disney World
- Disney on a Budget? Rent DVC Points
- Final Verdict: Are Disney Value Resorts Worth It
Disney Value Resort Basics
Disney categorizes its resorts as Value, Moderate, Deluxe, and Deluxe Villas. Value Resorts are the most affordable option, but they still include perks like Early Theme Park Entry, free transportation, and advance Lightning Lane and Dining booking. They’re a great fit for park-heavy trips or families with young kids who’ll love the oversized Disney icons and bold theming.
Expect motel-style buildings with rooms that open to exterior walkways (except for Art of Animation Family Suites). All five resorts have large-scale Disney theming around the grounds—think 30-foot statues of characters, giant Rubik’s Cubes, and themed sections that kids will love.
Standard rooms typically start around $130 per night, and Family Suites (at All-Star Music and Art of Animation) start around $320 per night.
Disney Value Resort Rooms
Most Value Resort rooms sleep up to four, except the family suites at Art of Animation and All-Star Music, which sleep up to six.
Standard rooms at Pop Century and the All-Stars come with two queen beds, one of which folds up into a table for more space during the day. Art of Animation’s The Little Mermaid standard rooms have two queen beds—complete with seashell headboards.
Suites at Art of Animation and All-Star Music have a separate bedroom with a queen bed, a living area with a table and sofa that both convert into beds, a kitchenette with a fridge and microwave, and two bathrooms (a big bonus for families).
Disney Value Resorts Theming
- Pop Century Resort: Pop culture fads from the 1950s to the 1990s
- Art of Animation Resort: Lion King, Finding Nemo, Cars, and Little Mermaid
- All-Star Movies Resort: Toy Story, Fantasia, 101 Dalmatians, Love Bug, Mighty Ducks
- All-Star Music Resort: Jazz, Rock, Country, Broadway, Calypso
- All-Star Sports Resort: Baseball, Basketball, Football, Tennis, Surfing
Disney’s Value Resort Amenities
The Value Resorts are fairly compact and easy to navigate. Each one has a main building that houses the front desk, food court, gift shop, and arcade. There are bus stops out front and the feature pool is located just behind.
They all have the same standard amenities- free Wi-Fi, 24-hour laundry rooms, every-other-day housekeeping, and free self-parking. The gift shops at the All-Star Resorts are smaller but carry most essentials and Disney souvenirs. Pop and Art of Animation have slightly more variety due to their size and Skyliner traffic. Playgrounds are available at all the All-Stars and Art of Animation (Righteous Reef-one of the best Disney themed playgrounds).
Disney Value Resorts Dining
Each of the Value Resorts has one quick-service food court with a good selection of affordable meals. There are no table service restaurants here, but if you’re staying at one of the Disney value resorts with Skyliner access, you can easily head to another resort for a meal.
The food courts also sell resort refill mugs—a good investment for longer stays or if you plan on a rest day or two. Each resort also has a pool bar —I loved the Frosé at All-Star Movies.
Disney Value Resort Pools
Every Value Resort has one feature pool (large and well-themed). The All-Stars have one other leisure pool, While Art of Animation and Pop Century have two. There are no hot tubs or water slides at any Value Resort. If you’re staying at an All-Star resort, you can pool hop between the three, (including the splash pad at All-Star Movies).
Disney Value Resorts with Splash Pads
Pop Century, Art of Animation, and All-Star Movies all have simple splash pads—great for little ones. Just note these aren’t full water playgrounds like you’ll find at the Deluxe Resorts.
Disney Resort Activities
Each Value Resort offers:
- Movies under the stars
- Campfires with marshmallow roasting
- Daily poolside games
You can walk between the All-Star Resorts or from Pop Century to Art of Animation to enjoy whatever activities they’re running that day.
You can also find these more unique activities at some of the Value Resorts on select days:
- Artists of Animation Art Class (Art of Animation)
- Design Your Own Mosaic (All-Star Music)
- Family Wellness Dance, Storytime Yoga, and Pajama Parties
Transportation Options at Disney Value Resorts
- Free Bus Service to all parks, Disney Springs, and water parks
- Pop Century and Art of Animation have Skyliner access to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios
- Minnie Vans: a private ride to anywhere on Disney property, for a fee
- Uber/Lyft: Often faster than waiting—our rides cost $5–$15 on average
Perks of Staying on Disney Property
Staying at any Disney Resort gives you the following perks:
- Early Theme Park Entry (get in and start riding 30 minutes before the official opening at all four parks)
- Advance Lightning Lane Booking (up to 7 days out)
- Early Dining Reservations (60 days in advance)
- Optional Disney Dining Plans
- Free Water Park Admission on check-in day
What’s Not Available at Value Resorts
There are a few things you won’t get:
- No table service restaurants
- No fitness centers
- No hot tubs or waterslides
- No extended evening hours (only available at Deluxe resorts)
Why Pop Century Resort is the Best Disney Value Resort
So, which Disney value resort is best?
By far: Pop Century. It offers the best balance of price, amenities, and transportation options.
It’s often priced closer to the All-Star Resorts but still gives you the benefit of the Skyliner. Art of Animation shares Skyliner access and has great theming, but it’s more expensive. If you’re prioritizing value and convenience, Pop Century is the smarter choice.
Unbeatable Transportation
Pop Century shares a Skyliner station with Art of Animation, which means you get direct access to Epcot (through the International Gateway entrance) and Hollywood Studios. This is ideal for park-heavy trips, rope-dropping, or mid-day park breaks. You can also take the Skyliner over to other resorts for more dining and entertainment options.
You’ll still need buses for Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom.
Room Quality & Value
Pop Century’s rooms were refurbished with functionality in mind. Instead of two double beds, each room has a queen bed and a pull-down queen size Murphy bed that doubles as a table and chairs, freeing up floor space during the day and making the room feel bigger.
The bathrooms were upgraded too—sliding doors, glass shower doors, and updated fixtures. You also get a coffee maker, a mini-fridge (with a see-through door), and a flat-screen TV.
Theming and Atmosphere
Pop Century has a fun, vibrant theme – trends of the 1950s through the 1990s. Each section focuses on a different decade, with oversized icons like bowling pins, Rubik’s Cubes, and Yo-Yos. Nostalgic for adults, and pure fun for kids.
Everything Pop Shopping & Dining
Everything Pop is the resort’s hub for food and souvenirs. It’s a quick-service food court with classic American fare—burgers, pizza, salads, Mickey waffles, and themed desserts. It’s also connected to the resort gift shop, so you can grab snacks or souvenirs without leaving the resort.
Pools and Other Activities
Pop Century has three pools:
- Hippy Dippy Pool (1960s) – the main feature with flower-shaped water jets.
- Bowling Pool (1950s) – shaped like a giant bowling pin.
- Computer Pool (1990s) – featuring a giant keyboard on the deck.
Pop Century vs. Art of Animation Comparison
What is the difference between Art of Animation and Pop Century?
They both offer Skyliner access and have great locations, but there are big differences in price, room design, and overall experience.
Price Difference
Pop Century’s standard rooms are more budget-friendly than Art of Animation’s. You’re also more likely to find Pop Century rooms included in discount deals. Art of Animation’s Little Mermaid rooms cost more because of the extra theming, not extra comfort, and are the furthest from the main building at Art of Animation.
Room Layout and Functionality
This is where Pop Century comes in ahead.
Art of Animation’s Little Mermaid rooms have two queen beds and older bathrooms with shower curtains. They look fun, but they feel dated. Pop Century’s rooms have been modernized—queen bed, pull-down bed/table combo, and updated bathrooms with sliding doors.
Family Suites vs. Standard Rooms
If you’re a party of 1–4 and mostly using the room to sleep and shower, Pop Century’s standard rooms are perfect for a park-heavy trip.
If you’re a group of 5 or 6, Art of Animation (or All-Star Music) family suites will be your only Value Resort option, though at a higher price. Sometimes the cost of a suite can come close to the cost of a Moderate or Deluxe resort, so it’s worth it to look into a DVC rental (a one-bedroom cabin at Fort Wilderness starts at $345 through David’s Vacation Club Rentals)
Is a family Suite at Disney worth it for smaller parties?
It depends on your priorities and needs. You get a lot more space, a private separate bedroom, two bathrooms, and a kitchenette. If you want room to spread out, have kids who nap, or plan to eat some meals in-room, it may be worth the upgrade. If you just need a place to sleep and don’t care about the extras, a standard room is fine.
Disney Value Resorts Ranked
#1 Pop Century
Pop Century wins the title for best Disney value resort overall. It nails the balance of modern rooms, Skyliner access, and price. But depending on what matters most to you, another value resort might be a better fit.
#2 Art of Animation Resort
Art of Animation’s immersive Disney theming outranks all the resorts. It feels like you’re stepping into the film. It’s more expensive than other value resorts, due to the theming. The Big Blue Pool (Finding Nemo-themed) is the largest on Disney property and has underwater music. Family suites here are the best value if you need to sleep 5 or 6 people and want bold Disney theming.
#3 All-Star Movies Resort
This one wins out over the other All-Stars for the Toy Story theming, which is still a hit with most kids. Other areas are a bit dated, and younger kids may not recognize them (mine had never heard of Herbie or the Mighty Ducks).
#4 All-Star Music Resort
The best Disney World value resort for adults—especially music lovers—is All-Star Music. The vibe here is a bit more laid-back and adult-friendly than the other All-Stars. It also stands out as the only All-Star Resort with family suites, making it a more budget-friendly option for groups of 5 or 6 who don’t want to splurge on Art of Animation.
#5 All-Star Sports Resort
Last on the list is All-Star Sports. Unless you’re a sports fan, there really isn’t much appeal to it. It feels the least “Disney.” It’s also commonly used for sports teams due to its proximity to ESPN Wide World of Sports, making it noisy and chaotic. If you’re still considering it, check the ESPN event calendar before you book to avoid heavy group stays.
Which Value Resort is Right for You?
The best Disney Value Resort depends on your family’s priorities, budget, and desired experience. Here’s a guide to help you pick the one that fits your trip best.
Best Disney Value Resort for Toddlers and Preschoolers
Prioritize Theming & Transportation.
Immersive theming adds to the Disney magic for kids, which is why Art of Animation and All-Star Movies are the top picks for families with little ones.
- Art of Animation Resort has over-the-top theming—in the best way. Life-sized movie scenes let kids pretend-play in the Cars area and the Finding Nemo playground, and see all their favorite characters throughout the resort. The rooms and suites bring that same magic inside. Add in the Skyliner access for easy mid-day breaks from EPCOT and Hollywood Studios, and this is the top choice for young kids.
- All-Star Movies Resort: If your group is four or fewer and you’re okay skipping the family suite, All-Star Movies still offers fun theming (especially Toy Story) and great value.
Best Disney Value Resort for Teens
Teenagers tend to care less about character theming and more about comfort, space, and easy access to other experiences.
- Pop Century Resort: Teens will like the modern rooms, less “kiddie” theming, and Skyliner access to two parks. It also makes it easy to hop over to the BoardWalk Inn, where you’ll find the best Community Hall for teens.
- All-Star Music Resort: If your family needs more space, the family suites here are more budget-friendly than Art of Animation and include a full-size fridge—great for snacks and leftovers.
Best Disney Value Resort for Adults/couples
Adults and couples tend to prioritize comfort, convenience, and relaxation.
- Pop Century Resort: The rooms feel more modern, and while you may not use the pull-down bed, the extra space and table is a nice bonus. Skyliner access means you can easily explore the BoardWalk area resorts dining options.
- All-Star Movies Resort: The quietest of the All-Star Resorts, it’s a good option for couples wanting a more laid-back environment or on a tight budget.
Best Disney Value Resort for Large Families or Groups
More people means you need more space.
- All-Star Music Resort: Offers the most budget-friendly family suites, with a full-size fridge and a separate sleeping area.
- Art of Animation Resort: Pricier, but worth it for the added Disney magic if your group includes younger kids.
Best for Disney on a Budget
If keeping costs low is your top priority:
- All-Star Sports Resort: Usually has the lowest nightly rates of all the Disney resorts (aside from camping at Fort Wilderness). Music and Movies follow, in that order. If you’re spending most of your time in the parks and just need a clean, comfortable place to sleep with access to Disney Resort perks, this is your best bet.
- Pop Century Resort: A small step up in price, but still very affordable—and the Skyliner access alone might be worth the upgrade.
Best Disney Resort for Park-Heavy Trips
If you plan to be in the parks from rope-drop to fireworks:
- Pop Century Resort: Skyliner access makes it quick to get to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios.
Split Stay Tip: If Magic Kingdom is a big part of your trip, consider a split stay (read more here) with a few nights at a Magic Kingdom-area resort like the Contemporary for easy access. During your value resort stay, use Uber or Lyft to get to Animal Kingdom and skip the bus wait entirely.
Best Value Resort for Specific Theming Preferences
If theming is a top priority, here’s your top choices:
- Art of Animation Resort: Best for fans of Cars, Finding Nemo, Little Mermaid, or The Lion King.
- All-Star Movies Resort: Perfect for Toy Story fans.
- All-Star Music: Great for music lovers.
- All-Star Sports: Perfect for sports fans.
- Pop Century Resort: A nostalgic favorite if you’re into a specific era—I personally love the ‘60s section.
Maximizing Your Disney Value Resort Stay: Tips & Tricks
A few simple strategies can upgrade your stay without adding to your cost.
- Use the My Disney Experience app to check bus times so you’re not waiting longer than needed.
- Use mobile order whenever possible.
- Try to avoid peak mealtimes, eat earlier or later than the crowds.
- For quick breakfasts, grab something the night before that can be kept in the mini-fridge or pack something simple like pop-tarts.
- If you want to be close to the main building, you’ll need to pay a bit more to book a Preferred Room.
- If you prefer to be away from the busyness and noise, check the resort map on the Disney website or app and request a room in the furthest building.
- Take advantage of Early Theme Park Entry. Those extra 30 minutes can help you get one or two big attractions done with little to no wait
Go Resort Hopping.
Can’t afford a deluxe resort, but still want to enjoy some of the activities they offer?
At no extra cost you can see the animals at Animal Kingdom Lodge or take the kids to play at one of Disney’s community halls or themed playgrounds.
Resort hopping is an easy way to upgrade your trip without upgrading your hotel. While pools are off-limits, you can explore the grounds, enjoy free activities, and access better dining. It’s perfect for a rest day or winding down after the parks.
For more ideas, check out my guides on Disney Resort Hopping, resort hopping with kids, 8 sample itineraries, or my review of seeing every resort in 3 days.
Best Budget Hotels Near Disney World
If you’re open to staying off-site, there are plenty of budget-friendly hotels near Disney World that still have a lot to offer. While you’ll miss out on perks like Early Entry and free Disney transportation, many of these hotels offer their own shuttles, family suites, and other convenient amenities.
My top off-site pick?
Drury Plaza Hotel Orlando – Disney Springs Area. Their standard room with two queens is often the same price as a Value Resort, but their two-room suites are where you’ll get a great deal—starting under $200 during low season.
And the perks?
You get free hot breakfasts, an evening “5:30 Kickback” with hot food and drinks, free soda and popcorn, and no resort fee. On-site dining includes two restaurants, a Pizza Hut Express, and a market. There’s also an arcade, pool, splash pad, and hot tub. Plus: free transportation to all four Disney parks.
Want more options? Click on the interactive map above.
Disney on a Budget? Rent DVC Points
Want deluxe perks without the deluxe price?
Renting Disney Vacation Club (DVC) points lets you stay at deluxe resorts for close to what you’d pay at a Value. No membership needed, and you still get perks like Early Entry, Disney transportation, and great pools (with waterslides and hot tubs).
You’ll need to book early, but the savings can be huge.
Here’s a one-night comparison (Sept 1–2, low season) showing DVC rental prices from David’s Vacation Club Rentals vs. Disney direct:
Value Resort Prices (booking directly through Disney):
- All-Star Resorts: $131–139
- Pop Century: $189
- Art of Animation: $226
DVC Rental Prices vs. Disney Direct (same night):
- Animal Kingdom Lodge: $161 (vs. $452 direct)
- Bay Lake Tower: $299 (vs. $556 direct)
- BoardWalk Inn: $250 (vs. $598 direct)
- Grand Floridian: $400 (vs. $725 direct)
- Old Key West: $180 (vs. $486 direct)
- Polynesian: $350 (vs. $554 direct)
- Riviera: $350 (vs. $479 direct)
- Saratoga Springs: $180 (vs. $480 direct)
- Wilderness Lodge: $325 (vs. $499 direct)
- Fort Wilderness Cabins: $375 (vs. $533 direct)
It’s one of the easiest ways to upgrade your stay without blowing your budget—check out the options yourself at David’s Vacation Club Rentals.
Final Verdict: Are Disney Value Resorts Worth It
If you’re focused on budget but still want that classic Disney experience, Value Resorts are the way to go. You get Disney Resort perks like Early Theme Park Entry and free transportation, plus fun, larger-than-life theming that kids love. The rooms are basic but clean and comfortable, perfect if you plan to spend most of your time in the parks.
Pop Century stands out as the best overall Disney Value Resort.
It consistently delivers the best balance of:
- Updated, comfortable rooms
- Skyliner transportation
- A fun nostalgic theme
- a budget-friendly price
Art of Animation is a close second, especially if you need a family suite or have kids who love that Disney theming. But for most travelers, Pop Century offers the most value for the price.
Want more tips on where to stay? Check out my recommendations:
- The 8 Best Disney Resorts to Stay At
- Split Stay at Disney World Guide and Itinerary
- The Best Disney Resorts for Autism
Need ideas for your non-park days? Don’t miss these:
- Disney Day Bag Packing List
- Things To Do at Disney Resorts
- What to Do at Disney on Non-Park Days
- Disney Resort Community Halls
- Disney Resort Beaches
- The Best Beaches Near Disney World
Planning to do some resort hopping? Check these out:
- Disney World Resort Hopping 2025: A Comprehensive Guide
- Disney Resort Hopping with Kids
- The 8 Best Disney Resort Hopping Itineraries
- The Ultimate Disney Resort Hopping Itinerary
- My Resort Hopping Review
Doing Disney with someone with Autism? Check these out:
- The Complete Disney World Autism Guide
- The Best Disney Resorts for Autism
- Disney DAS Program: A Complete Guide
- Resort Hopping with My Autistic Child
Need help eating gluten-free at Disney? Check out my reviews of the best spots.
- The Best Gluten-Free Restaurants in Disney World
- ‘Ohana Gluten Free Breakfast Review 2025
- Roundup Rodeo BBQ Gluten Free Review
- Hollywood & Vine Gluten Free Breakfast Review
For more travel tips and inspiration, don’t forget to follow me on Instagram, Facebook or TikTok!
