The Best Disney Resorts to Visit

Last year, my kids and I spent three of our “rest days” exploring the Disney resorts to find the best Disney resort to visit. By the end of the trip, we had visited every single Disney World resort. It sounded relaxing when I planned it… but it ended up being some of our biggest walking days of the trip.

Even so, it was a nice change of pace. Exploring the resorts let us see parts of Disney World most visitors miss, and take a break from the parks without feeling like we were wasting time.

Some resorts were quick stops, but a handful really stood out for their theming, atmosphere, and things to see. If you’re wondering which ones are worth visiting, here are the best Disney World resorts, based on our experience exploring all of them.

1. Animal Kingdom Lodge
2. Art of Animation
3. Fort Wilderness
4. Pop Century
5. The Polynesian
6. Caribbean Beach Resort
7. Wilderness Lodge
8. Coronado Springs
9. All Star Resorts- Movies, Music, and Sports
10. Port Orleans- Riverside and French Quarter

If you’re curious why these resorts made the cut, keep reading to see what makes these ten the most fun, interesting, and worthwhile to explore.

Resort Hopping

If you’re planning your own Disney World resort hopping adventure (whether you want to see all the resorts in one trip like I did or spread it out over a few visits), I’ve got plenty of posts to help you plan:

• Disney World Resort Hopping: The Complete Guide —everything you need to know before you go.
• Ultimate Disney Resort Hopping Itinerary — how to see all the Disney Resorts in three days.
• 8 Best Resort Hopping Itineraries —the best 1-day itineraries.
• Resort Hopping with Kids — includes the best kid-friendly Disney Resort hopping itinerary.
• Resort Hopping with my Autistic Child— lessons I learned and what I’d do differently.

I also break down what you can do at each resort, including Community Halls, beaches, and what to pack in your Disney day bag.  These tips will help you make the most of each stop—whether you’re strolling the lobbies, relaxing on the beach, or planning a longer stay at one of my recommended 8 Best Resorts to Stay At.

Now, let’s get into the details of how my three-day Disney resort hopping itinerary actually worked out, what makes these ten the best Disney resorts to visit, and where the rest of the resorts landed on my list.

Day 1 – Magic Kingdom Area

We started our resort tour on the second day of our trip, before visiting any parks. Day one focused on the monorail loop and the original Walt Disney World resorts, which felt like the right place to start since they’re where Disney World began.

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

This is one of the best Disney Resort lobbies we visited—and a must-see during Christmas. I was excited to see it still decorated for the holidays. The tree is huge, and we got some great photos on the Copper Creek bridge, which was decorated too. Even outside the holidays, the lobby alone is worth the stop. Between the architecture, outdoor spaces, and dining options, it’s an easy resort to linger at.

Wilderness Lodge Tour Highlights:

• The Main Lobby: Walk across the bridge over Copper Creek and see the 82-foot grand fireplace.
• The Waterfall: Head outside to see where Copper Creek turns into a beautiful waterfall.
• Art & Architecture Tour: Check out the free “Wonders of the Lodge” tour at 9:00 am.
• Carolwood Pacific Room: Visit the Boulder Ridge Villas lobby to see a lounge filled with Walt Disney’s personal train artifacts.
• Fire Rock Geyser: Watch the geyser erupt every hour on the hour.
• Scenic Docks: Take a peaceful walk across the bridges leading to the boat docks.
• Dining:
  • Story Book Dining at Artist Point: Character dinner with Snow White, Grumpy, Dopey, and the Evil Queen.
  • Whispering Canyon Café: Known for its deliberately rowdy, interactive service.
  • Geyser Point Bar & Grill: Open-air waterfront bar and grill.

What We Did at Wilderness Lodge:

7:30 am: We explored the grounds, starting with the waterfall before grabbing our mobile-ordered breakfast from Roaring Fork. After filling up our resort mugs (a must-have for resort hopping), we wandered over to Boulder Ridge Villas, spotting our first hidden Mickey in the lobby. We found the Carolwood Pacific Room, then the kids played a tabletop game before we headed back outside. On the way to the water taxi to Magic Kingdom, we passed through Geyser Point Bar & Grill (closed, but still relaxing to peek inside) and walked past Fire Rock Geyser. Finally, we enjoyed the scenic bridges to the dock before hopping on the water taxi to Magic Kingdom.A must for any nature-focused Disney Resorts tour is Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. This resort is number seven on my list of the best Disney Resorts to visit.

Disney’s Polynesian Resort

If you’re staying in the Magic Kingdom area and only have time for one quick resort tour, this is the one I’d recommend. I loved the lobby—it has such a calm, relaxing vibe. Between the tiki statues and the gardens just outside the front doors, it feels like a tropical island rather than Disney. The beach would be an amazing spot to watch fireworks if you visit late. Or, if you visit early like we did, breakfast at ‘Ohana is the best character dining for a non-park day.

Polynesian Resort Tour Highlights:

• Grand Ceremonial House: Explore the main lobby and the shops on the second floor.
• Tropical Views: Check out the gardens and water features outside the front entrance, you won’t be dissapointed.
• Free Leis: Stop by the front desk to grab a free lei!
• Island Tower: Check out the new lobby.
• The Beach: Relax in a hammock and get a look at the overwater bungalows.
• Dining:
  • Wailulu Bar & Grill: Tropical resort bar with outdoor seating at Island Tower.
  • ‘Ohana: Character breakfast with Lilo and Stitch.
  • Pineapple Lanai: Serving Dole Whip.

What We Did at the Polynesian:

9:50 am: We took the water taxi over to get a good look at the overwater bungalows and views of the Island Tower and Grand Floridian. We wandered through the Grand Ceremonial House, grabbed free leis at the front desk, and explored the landscaped gardens and water features outside. A walk along the beach gave us a closer look at the bungalows, and the kids tested one of the hammocks (which sagged too low to be comfortable). With an hour to kill before our character breakfast, we wandered over to check out the Island Tower lobby and rested in a cozy lounge area. Back at the main building, we checked out the second-floor shops and lobby views before heading into ‘Ohana for our Lilo and Stitch breakfast.

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort

The Grand Floridian has by far the most elegant lobby on property, with a grand staircase, sparkling chandeliers, a grand piano, and an old-fashioned, luxurious vibe. While it’s worth stopping in if you’re doing a monorail tour, it didn’t make my list of the best Disney Resorts to visit for non-guests—other resorts just have more to offer. That said, it does have some of the finest dining options at Disney, so it’s worth a stop if you’re a foodie.

Grand Floridian Resort Tour Highlights:

• The Main Lobby: Enjoy the live piano music and take in the architecture. This is a must-see at Christmas for the famous gingerbread house.
• Front Entrance: Look for the antique car and carriage parked outside the doors.
• DVC Villa Lobby: Head over to the villas to see the beautiful Mary Poppins fountain.
• Disney Wedding Pavilion: Catch a glimpse of this stunning venue located on the shores of Seven Seas Lagoon.
• Dining:
  • 1900 Park Fare: Character breakfast or dinner with Aladdin, Cinderella, Mirabel, and Tiana.
  • Narcoossee’s: Waterfront restaurant offering incredible views of the Magic Kingdom (and fireworks show).
  • Enchanted Rose: Beauty and the Beast–themed lounge.

What We Did at the Grand Floridian:

1:30 pm: We walked over from the Polynesian, which gave us a chance to see the wedding pavilion (closed, but still worth a look from the outside) and snap a photo of the Mary Poppins fountain in the DVC lobby. We took a much-needed break in the lounge chairs along the beach, enjoying views of Magic Kingdom across the water, before heading inside to the main lobby. The Christmas decorations were still up, though the famous gingerbread house was already gone. Outside the front entrance, we found an antique car and carriage and got some pictures of them. Finally, we headed upstairs to browse the shops before catching the monorail.The Grand Floridian has, by far, the most elegant lobby of all the Disney resorts. With its grand staircase, chandeliers, live grand piano, and old-school Victorian style, it feels formal and refined the moment you walk in.

Disney’s Contemporary Resort

I’ve wanted to tour the Contemporary ever since my first Disney trip, when I caught a glimpse of it riding the monorail to Magic Kingdom. For me, seeing this resort was the highlight of the day, and riding the monorail into it was a must. It’s definitely worth a stop if you’re doing a monorail tour, though I wouldn’t go out of my way to visit again. While it has a Community Hall and a beach, you can find the same kind of activities at other resorts. It’s my second pick for the best resort to stay at, mainly for the location and transportation options.

Contemporary Resort Tour Highlights:

• Grand Canyon Concourse: Visit the fourth floor to see this massive open space. If you visit at Christmas, look for the giant gingerbread display.
• Fantasia Gift Shop: This shop sits right in the middle of the concourse and is great for browsing.
• Observation Deck: This deck offers incredible views of Magic Kingdom. It is a great spot to watch the fireworks if you are resort hopping at night.
• Bay Lake Tower Community Hall: This is a hidden gem for making cheap, unique souvenirs.
• Metal Mickey Sculpture: Head to the pool area to find this iconic statue. You can often find a PhotoPass photographer here too!
• Dining:
  • Chef Mickey’s: Character dining buffet breakfast or dinner with Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Donald, and Pluto.
  • California Grill: Signature dining restaurant on the 15th floor with breathtaking views of the Magic Kingdom (and fireworks show).

What We Did at the Contemporary:

2:00 pm: We explored the fourth-floor Grand Canyon Concourse, visited the Fantasia gift shop, and checked out the observation deck with views of Magic Kingdom. Then we crossed the Skyway Bridge to Bay Lake Tower to find the Community Hall, where the kids took a break—Brie relaxed, while Zen and I made custom Disney pins. We grabbed a family photo at the Mickey ear sculpture (lucking out that a PhotoPass photographer was just setting up when we go there), refilled our mugs, grabbed Mickey bars at Contempo Café, took a quick walk along the beach, and finally caught the water taxi to our last stop of the day.

Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort

This was Zen’s favorite stop of the day—and the resort she was most excited to see because of the horse barn. While we didn’t have enough time to check out all the activities or fully explore the resort, it still ranks number two on my list of the best Disney Resorts to visit because of how much there is to do. This is the only resort where you’ll find activities like horseback riding, kayaking, and archery, and you could easily spend a full resort day here.

Fort Wilderness Resort Tour Highlights:

• The Beach: This massive sandy beach is perfect for relaxing.
• Tri-Circle-D Ranch horse barn:
  • Small viewing area with horse stables.
  • Walt Disney horse photo and memorabilia room.
  • Dragon Calliope, a horse-drawn musical instrument in a classic carriage.
  • Pony rides.
• Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Campfire Sing-A-Long: A classic, free evening activity.
• Starlight Wagon Ride: Enjoy a horse-drawn wilderness tour.
• Water Activities: Rent a kayak or canoe, or try some dockside fishing.
• Unique Experiences: Book a horseback riding session or the Archery experience.
• Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue: This high-energy music and comedy dinner show is a Disney staple.

What We Did at Fort Wilderness:

4:45 pm: We started with a walk along the beach—the largest at any Disney resort—before heading to Tri-Circle-D Ranch.  It’s a big barn, but the viewing area is small –with just one hallway with horse stables, a Walt Disney horse photo/memorabilia room, a huge carriage on display, and a pony area. On the way out, I mobile-ordered dinner from Trail’s End; Zen and I tried the ribs (not our favorite), and Brie had the pulled pork sandwich. We finished with the starlight horse-drawn wagon ride, which turned out to be more of a quiet wilderness ride than the campground tour I had expected.

After the wagon ride the kids were done and ready to go.  Even though we only saw 5 resorts that day my Fitbit logged 23,895 steps, which was more walking than any of our park days. While resort hopping is a great way to spend a non-park day, it’s not much of a break. Had we stayed later, we planned to go to the campfire and sing-along at Fort Wilderness, then take an Uber to the Polynesian to catch the end of their Aloha After Dark party, grab a Dole Whip, and watch the fireworks and Electrical Water Pageant on the beach. 

Day 2 – Skyliner and BoardWalk Area

We started our second day of resort hopping right after the first.  The kids were still pretty tired from the day before so we decided to do things a bit differently this day- they took a lot more breaks (relaxing in the kid’s areas of the lobbies or community halls), while I explored more thoroughly.

Disney’s Pop Century Resort

This was one of my favorite resorts to explore and is at the top of my list of resorts to stay at. The lobby here is fun, with bright colors, a retro vibe, and vintage memorabilia that’s like a walk down memory lane for adults. Outside, kids will love the oversized icons from different decades, with Disney classics like Lady and the Tramp, The Jungle Book, and Roger Rabbit. My kids loved the giant sculptures—even if they had no idea who Roger Rabbit was! I just loved the nostalgia of it all.

Pop Century Resort Tour Highlights:

• Decade Walk: Tour the grounds to see the massive icons from each era:
  • 50s: Lady and the Tramp, a giant Jukebox, and Bowling pins.
  • 60s: The Jungle Book, Play-Doh, and massive Yo-Yos.
  • 70s: Foosball, a Mickey Mouse Phone, and a giant Big Wheel.
  • 80s & 90s: Roger Rabbit, a Walkman, and Rubik’s Cubes.
• Hourglass Lake: Take the walking path toward Art of Animation. It is a beautiful stroll, and you can read the Disney trivia signs along the way.

What We Did at Pop Century:

7:45 am: We took an Uber there to save time and started in the lobby, where the kids relaxed while I took a closer look at the memorabilia-filled shadow boxes (which were sadly removed in the 2026 lobby renovation). Then we explored the grounds, walking through each decade in order and stopping for photos along the way. From there, we followed the path around Hourglass Lake to Art of Animation, reading the trivia signs as we went.

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

This was the resort I was most excited to see. In my opinion, it’s the second-best Disney resort to visit—but if you’re resort hopping with kids, it could easily be number one. It’s the most immersive resort on property. If your kids love Disney movies, the theming here is unmatched. It’s a must-see for the Cars section and the Finding Nemo playground alone. Walking around feels like stepping into a Disney movie—especially in the Cars area. Even if you’re not planning a full resort day, it’s worth taking the Skyliner over on a non-park day if you’re staying nearby.

Art of Animation Resort Tour Highlights:

• Lobby artwork: Look through all the Disney sketches and artwork along the walls.
• Themed areas from four classic Disney movies: The grounds are full of photo-ops from:
  • Cars (The Cozy Cone Motel is a must-see!).
  • Finding Nemo.
  • Lion King.
  • Little Mermaid.
• Playgrounds:
  • Righteous Reef (Finding Nemo section)—one of the best-themed playgrounds at Disney.
  • Boneyard (Lion King section).

What We Did at Art of Animation:

8:45 am: We took our time exploring, starting in the lobby where the kids relaxed while I checked out the Disney sketches and artwork. Outside, we headed straight to the Cars section for photos (getting a picture with Fillmore was the highlight for me). Then we moved on to the Finding Nemo area where the kids played at the Righteous Reef playground (one of the best-themed playgrounds on Disney property). We stopped for photos in the Lion King section, finished in the Little Mermaid area, and grabbed gluten-free cupcakes and mug refills at Landscape of Flavors before heading to the Skyliner.

Disney’s Riviera Resort

While Riviera isn’t a top resort to visit, it is my top pick for Disney World Resorts for children with special needs to stay at. It’s a great place to slow down compared to busier resorts, that tend to be a bit overwhelming. The elegant European-style lobby at Riviera is worth stopping in to see if you’re already in the area or heading there for a meal. The entire resort has a calm, serene vibe, making it a great place to relax on a resort day—especially if you’re staying at another Skyliner or BoardWalk area resort. And if you’re nearby with kids, it’s worth the stop just to spend some time in the Community Hall.

Riviera Resort Tour Highlights:

• The Mosaics: Walk through the tunnel leading to the Skyliner to see the massive Tangled and Peter Pan mosaic murals. They are made of over a million hand-cut tiles!
• Lobby Balconies: Step out onto the balconies for a tranquil view of the grounds and the lake.
• Voyageurs’ Lounge: Relax in this quiet library filled with Disney books and travel memorabilia, plus check out the Walt Disney photos in the hallway.
• Lakeside Relaxation: Find the peaceful spot with lawn chairs facing the lake behind the pool.
• Eventi Community Room: This room offers crafts, games, and a great space for kids to unwind.
• Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera: Character Dining breakfast with Mickey, Minnie, Daisy, and Donald, or dinner with views of EPCOT and Hollywood Studios from the 10th floor.

What We Did at Riviera:

10:45 am: We started at the Skyliner atrium walkway, stopping to see the mosaics and fountains before heading into the main building. After a quick look around the busy lobby, we found a balcony with amazing views of the gardens and courtyards. The kids stayed in the Eventi Community Room to colour and watch a movie, while I explored a bit more, checking out the Voyagers’ Lounge- a cute little library area, and some Walt Disney photos in the hallway before heading outside where I found a spot to relax by the lake. We finished with a quick look at the beach, pool, and splash pad  (Brie really loved checking out all the unique pools at the resorts) before walking over to Caribbean Beach.

Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

Caribbean Beach feels like a tropical island escape, with colorful buildings, lush landscaping, and sandy beaches throughout the resort. It’s number six on my list of the best Walt Disney World resorts to visit, mostly because of Caribbean Cay Island. Not only does the island have a great playground, but it also has lounge chairs and hammocks, making it an ideal place to take a break. Beyond Caribbean Cay, each section of the resort has its own small beach, so there are plenty of quiet spots to stop and relax.  

Caribbean Beach Resort Tour Highlights:

• Skyliner Views: Enjoy a great view of the Skyliner gondolas gliding over the lake.
• Themed Villages: Walk through the various “islands” to see the unique buildings and beaches in each section.
• Old Port Royale: See the lighthouse and the dock area near the main lobby building.
• Caribbean Cay Island: This is the heart of the resort’s outdoor fun, with a large playground and plenty of hammocks.
• Dining:
  • Centertown Market: Quick-service with a Coke Freestyle machine to refill your Disney resort mugs.
  • Sebastian’s Bistro: Family-style diner right on the waterfront.

What We Did at Caribbean Beach:

11:45 am: On our way to the main building, we stopped at the Martinique section to check out the beach and try the hammocks (much better than the Polynesian—no sagging). We also got a look at the lighthouse and dock before heading inside. I mobile ordered lunch while the kids watched a classic Mickey cartoon in the lobby, then we picked it up at Centertown Market and took a break there. The kids were excited to see this quick-serve restaurant has Coke Freestyle machines to refill their mugs (which we hadn’t seen at any other resort). Afterward, we walked over to Caribbean Cay, where Brie played on the playground, then cut through the Jamaica section to reach the Skyliner.

Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin Hotels

While both the Swan and Dolphin resorts are stunning to see, there’s less for non-guests to do compared with Disney Resorts. Since they aren’t Disney-owned, they don’t offer the variety of activities you’ll find at other resorts.  That said, these hotels are a must-stop for resort hopping foodies—their restaurant selection is impressive, likely more than any other Disney-area resort. Plus, there is a beautiful beach with plenty of space to relax.

Swan and Dolphin Hotels Tour Highlights:

• The Architecture: See the distinctive triangle Dolphin building and the massive fountain out front.
• Dolphin Lobby: Check out the dramatic dolphin fountain inside the main lobby.
• Swan Lobby & Courtyards: View the swan fountains in the lobby and the two outdoor courtyards.
• The Beach: Relax on the sand with a playground and plenty of lounge chairs.
• Top-Rated Restaurants: Todd English’s Bluezoo, Rosa Mexicano, Il Mulino, or Kimonos.

What We Did at the Swan and Dolphin:

1:45 pm:The Skyliner brought us to EPCOT’s International Gateway, and from there we walked to the Dolphin and Swan. We stopped for photos of the iconic Dolphin building and fountain, spotted a Moana Te Fiti display on the way inside, and the kids took a break by the lobby fountain while I looked around. On our way back outside, we found a Galaxy’s Edge photo backdrop with a droid, then walked over to the Swan. On our way to the lobby, we found a couple of outdoor courtyards with swan fountains and another Star Wars-themed photo backdrop (this time Stormtroopers).

After a quick look at the lobby and outdoor areas, we headed to the beach, where Brielle played on the playground, then we all relaxed in lounge chairs and watched the swan boats go by. On our way toward the BoardWalk, we stopped for one last photo at a Dolphin and Swan Resort frame in front of the lake.

Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts

I loved the Yacht Club’s nautical theming- the giant globe in the lobby and the ship wheel that overlooks it.  It has an elegant and relaxing vibe.  The little library area upstairs was a neat find too. The lobby at Beach Club wasn’t as impressive (aside from their famous Green Clover & Aloe scent), but the antique car outside the front entrance was another hidden gem I was glad to find.  While the lobbies in both of these resorts would be worth stopping in to see if you’re walking around Crescent Lake, there isn’t much else to do at either resort.

Yacht & Beach Club Resorts Tour Highlights:

• Yacht Club Lobby: See the large globe and the ship wheel  overlooking the staircase. Don’t miss the cozy library area at the top of the stairs or the train display during Christmas.
• Beach Club Lobby: Take in the famous Green Clover & Aloe scent and see the antique car parked outside.
• Crescent Lake Views: Enjoy the views from the sandy beach.
• Dining:
  • Cape May Café: Character breakfast buffet with Minnie, Donald Duck, Daisy, and Goofy.
  • Beaches & Cream Soda Shop: Retro diner, known for it’s ice cream sundaes.

What We Did at the Yacht & Beach Club:

3:15 pm: We walked past the marina on our way to the Yacht Club, stopping for BoardWalk views along the way. Inside, I was glad to see the Christmas train display still up, and while the kids rested, I explored a bit—finding the ship’s wheel photo spot and the quiet library upstairs. After a few photos, we headed back outside to walk around Stormalong Bay to see what we could of it from outside the fence, then headed down to the beach. From there, we went into the Beach Club, where I took a quick look around the lobby and spotted another antique car outside while the kids relaxed. We finished by refilling our mugs and grabbing dinner at the Beach Club Marketplace—the gluten-free chili cheese dogs, which I had been looking forward to, did not disappoint.

Disney’s BoardWalk Inn Resort

The Boardwalk area is all about the entertainment, and great to visit at night.  If you have the energy, stay for the street performers. It’s one of the best free entertainment options at Disney. This would be my top choice of Disney resorts for teens.  The community hall here was one of the best we saw.  There’s free pinball, foosball, air hockey, video games, plus the usual crafts and a lounge area showing a Disney movie. For anyone planning on spending some time at the BoardWalk with older kids or teens, this is a great spot to come take a break. The lobby was cute too- I loved the carousel and roller coaster displays. 

BoardWalk Inn Resort Tour Highlights:

• The Disney BoardWalk: Take a stroll along the Disney BoardWalk and enjoy the amazing views, especially at night.
• BoardWalk Inn Lobby: Look for the vintage carousel and roller coaster models, the Hippocampus Electrolier Chandelier, and the view from the balcony.
• Ferris W. Eahlers Community Hall: The best Community Hall for teens.
• Boardwalk Buskers: Watch the street performers and try your luck at the carnival games.
• Surrey Bike Rentals: Rent a bike to ride around Crescent Lake.
• The Cake Bake Shop: Featuring creative cakes, pastries, and Instagram-worthy desserts.

What We Did at the BoardWalk Inn:

5:15 pm: This was our final stop on day two. Before heading to the resort, we checked out the Screen Door gift shop and Wyland Galleries, then went inside the BoardWalk Inn lobby. I loved the lively, carnival-style energy—it has a much different vibe than the other resorts. I found the carousel and roller coaster models and stepped out onto the balcony for a view. Then we explored outside so Brie could check out the roller coaster-themed waterslide at Luna Park Pool, then the kids tested out the playground.  Then we found the Community Hall, where they ended up taking a long break watching a movie—they were too tired to play the games.

By this point the kids had no interest in staying to check out the Disney Campfire and Movie Under the Stars as we had planned. We took the boat to Hollywood Studios, then a bus to our resort. Even with an early night, we logged 32,997 steps, the highest count of the trip. No wonder the kids were exhausted.

Day 3 – Disney Springs and Animal Kingdom Area

We planned to use our final resort hopping day as a break between park days, but the weather changed our plans, so we ended up doing four park days in a row. With temperatures dropping to 43°F (6°C) on our last full day at Disney, resort hopping that day made more sense than spending the day outdoors at Hollywood Studios.

But, after four park days, the kids were exhausted. They decided to stay at our resort for the morning and rest while I checked out the first couple of resorts alone. I got 29,807 steps in that day, so that was probably a good choice for them.

Disney’s Port Orleans Resorts

Finally, tenth on my list of the best Disney Resorts to visit while resort hopping is both Port Orleans Resorts.

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside

Riverside is huge! It would be perfect for exploring on a Surrey bike, but since I was solo, I just stuck to exploring the lobby and nearby areas on foot.  Ol’ Man Island was fun to explore, and I loved the hammocks along the pathway.

Port Orleans Riverside Tour Highlights:

• Riverside Mill: Check out the massive, working waterwheel.
• Ol’ Man Island: This area has a winding path with hammocks, river views, and the “Fishin’ Hole” docks.
• Outdoor Fun: Enjoy dockside fishing, or a tour of the grounds by Surrey bike or a horse-drawn carriage ride.
• River Roost Lounge: Hilarious Yehaa Bob Jackson comedy show.

What I Did at Port Orleans Riverside:

8:00 am: Since I was on my own for the morning, I stuck to Disney transportation and took a bus to Port Orleans Riverside, transferring at Hollywood Studios. I started with a quick walk through the lobby and gift shop (grabbing gloves since it was far cooler than I’d expected), then headed out to explore Ol’ Man Island. After warming up inside with a coffee refill, I took the walking path to Port Orleans French Quarter, enjoying the quiet, peaceful views of Riverside’s grand mansion-style buildings along the way.

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter

Over at Port Orleans French Quarter, stopping into Scat Cat’s Club Café for beignets is a must. This is the only place on property to get the famous Micky beignets (and they have gluten-freebeignets too!).

Port Orleans French Quarter Tour Highlights:

• Free Beads: Stop by the front desk to get free Mardi Gras beads.
• The Atmosphere: Explore the lobby and the beautiful fountains scattered throughout the grounds.
• Jazz Vibes: See the Mardi Gras and Alligator Dixieland band statues.
• Dining:
  • Scat Cat’s Club Lounge: Live jazz music on the weekends.
  • Scat Cat’s Club Café: Mickey-shaped (and gluten-free) beignets

What I Did at Port Orleans French Quarter:

Over at the French Quarter, I started off by touring the grounds. I found the Alligator Dixieland band statues and checked out the pool and playground. Then, I headed inside to warm up. After checking out the lobby, I went into Scat Cat’s Club Café for a treat and a break. I was more than impressed with the gluten-free beignets. They were one of the best treats of the trip for me. Of course, I grabbed extras to take back for Brielle, plus Mickey-shaped ones for Zen, before heading back to the buses and on to Disney Springs.

Disney’s Old Key West Resort

While this would be a great resort to stay at if you’re not visiting any parks, with its relaxed beach resort vibe, it’s not worth going out of your way to see on a resort hopping day. There just isn’t much here that you won’t find at a resort with a more convenient location. This would be a great resort to stay at, though, especially if you’re planning a low-key trip with little or no park time. The lobby is cute- not so much elegant and grand like some of the other resorts, it has a much more laid-back vibe. The area at the back is set up more like a lounge with bookshelves, couches, and tables and chairs, making it a great place to sit around and socialize.

Old Key West Resort Tour Highlights:

• The Lobby/Lounge: Relax in the cozy seating area and browse the bookshelves.
• Surrey Bike Rentals: Rent a bike to explore the grounds and enjoy the views of the Sassagoula River.
• Conch Flats Community Hall: Stop in for games, crafts, and a break from the Florida sun.
• Olivia’s Café: This is a very popular Disney World breakfast spot known for its home-cooked feel and “nautical-hidden-gem” vibe.

What I Did at Old Key West:

10:00 am: I took a bus to Old Key West from Disney Springs. I accidentally got off at the wrong stop, but it was a short walk to the main building and it gave me a chance to take in views of the buildings and the river. I checked out the lobby, wandered downs to the docks, peeked inside Conch Flats Community Hall, and checked out the pool area and playground—finding some hammocks near the tennis courts that would have been perfect for a break.

Afterward, I headed back to Disney Springs for about an hour of solo shopping, then bused back to my resort, grabbing lunch on the way to the room for me and the kids.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Animal Kingdom Lodge is just incredible – there’s animals, a community hall, and a breathtaking grand lobby. If you only have time to visit one resort, this is it! There’s lots to see in the lobby. It has a massive window wall overlooking the savanna, lots of African artifacts, and a grand fireplace. The Sunset Overlook Lounge has even more artifacts, and of course, the animal viewing areas are something you won’t find at any other resort. Resort hopping here is a free mini-zoo day. There are also two community rooms here, and they have multiple free activities for kids to do at different times throughout the day. You could easily spend half a day checking out everything in this resort.

Animal Kingdom Lodge Tour Highlights:

• Jambo House lobby: Check out all the artwork and artifacts, the fifth-floor bridge, and the multi-story window.
• Sunset Overlook Lounge: Even more displays and artifacts to see.
• Balconies with rocking chairs: Relax with a fantastic view.
• Animal Viewing Areas:
  • Jambo House: Arusha Rock (second floor, next to main lobby), Sunset Overlook (main lobby), Uzima Overlook (near Uzima Pool).
  • Kidani Village: Savanna Overlook (first floor off main lobby), Palace Library (second floor), Kidani Community Hall Balcony (second floor).
• Play Areas & Activities: Hakuna Matata Playground, Simba’s Activity Center (Jambo House), Kidani Village Community Hall, String of Memories activities.
• Dining:
  • Jiko: Signature restaurant with open-kitchen African-inspired cuisine.
  • Boma: Buffet with African-inspired dishes and familiar favorites.
  • The Mara: Quick service with must-try Zebra Domes.

What We Did at Animal Kingdom Lodge:

1:15 pm: We took an Uber to save time, knowing Animal Kingdom Lodge would take a while to explore. We missed the free 11:00 lobby art tour, so wandered around on our own, with the kids initially walking around with me before taking a break in front of the TV while I checked out the Sunset Overlook Lounge and found a balcony with rocking chairs. Outside, we found the Arusha and Uzima Savannas, where we watched zebras, giraffes, and flamingos. Then we stopped at the Hakuna Matata Playground, and checked out Simba’s Activity Center. Before leaving, we grabbed Zebra Domes at The Mara and refilled our resort mugs, then caught a bus back to Disney Springs.

Disney Springs

2:30 pm: The kids and I took a break from Resort hopping to do some souvenir shopping at Disney Springs since Zen wanted to check out the Star Wars shops. After looking for souvenirs, we stopped to get some family photos at the PhotoPass Studio since I had purchased Memory Maker for the trip.

Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort

This is another resort that’s not a must-see, but would be a great resort to stay at. While I wouldn’t go out of my way to get here, it is worth the short walk from Disney Springs if you have extra time. It’s also great spot to try out the Surrey Bikes, and the Community Hall is worth stopping at if you’re at Disney Springs with kids and need a break from the crowds.

Saratoga Springs Resort Tour Highlights:

• Racehorse Statue: Look for the bronze statue of a racehorse and jockey outside the main building.
• Antique Carriage: Check out the classic carriage parked near the front entrance.
• Congress Park Playground: This playhouse theme climber is one of the more unique playgrounds at Disney.
• Community Hall: Another great place for kids to cool off with indoor games and crafts.
• Surrey Bike Rentals: Always a great way to see more of these sprawled out resorts.

What We Did at Saratoga Springs:

3:45 pm: After Disney Springs, we walked to Saratoga Springs. On our way to the main building, we found a racehorse statue and antique carriage. The lobby isn’t as grand as some others, but the horse artwork fits the theme. We spent a bit of time at Community Hall, where Zen and I picked out ceramic magnets to take home and paint later. Then, we finally got the chance to take a Surrey Bike tour. It was such a fun way to see more of the sprawling grounds of these bigger resorts. We got great views of Willow Lake along the route, and stopped to check out Congress Park’s playhouse-themed playground on our way by. Unfortunately, there’s a set path you have to stay on, so we weren’t able to ride over to check out the Treehouse Villas as I’d hoped.

Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort

Number eight on my list of the best Disney resorts to visit, Coronado Springs is a must-see at night. The views from the bridges are stunning, the Tower lobby is one of the most beautiful on property, and the dining options here are far better than most Moderates. Gran Destino Tower is especially impressive after dark, with the lights reflecting across the lake. The Gran Destino Tower lobby is sophisticated and artistic, and it’s one of the best places at this resort to sit and relax. Overall, Coronado Springs is just beautiful—and it’s a great Disney Resort to save for the end of the night.

Coronado Springs Resort Tour Highlights:

• Nighttime Views: Walk around the lagoon to see the tower and bridges lit up.
• El Centro: Visit the original lobby to see the beautiful fountain.
• Gran Destino Tower: Explore the Spanish-inspired art and the massive chandeliers in the main lobby.
• Bridge over Lago Dorado: This scenic walkway offers great views of the entire property.
• Explorer’s Playground: This is another amazingly themed Disney resort playground that kids will love.
• Dining:
  • Three Bridges Bar and Grill: Open-air restaurant, located right in the middle of the lagoon.
  • Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood: At the top of the tower, with an open kitchen and views of the Hollywood Studios (and fireworks show).
  • El Mercado de Coronado: Quick-service with a great build-your-own bowl station.

What We Did at Coronado Springs:

6:15 pm: We started at the El Centro lobby, walking through to check out the fountain, then headed outside to explore the grounds before dark. We stopped on the Lago Dorado bridge to take in the views of Three Bridges Bar and Grill and the Gran Destino Tower. On the other side of the bridge, we found the Explorer’s Playground (yet another amazingly themed Disney resort playground!), where the kids stook a play break.

We had planned to eat dinner at Three Bridges Bar and Grill, but it was really cold, and the restaurant is open-air, so we decided to skip it and grabbed dinner at El Mercado de Coronado. I was impressed with the selection at this quick-serve restaurants, since the build-your-own bowl station was entirely gluten-free. Before heading back, we checked out both floors of the Gran Destino Tower lobby.  By the time we returned to the buses, we were exhausted but satisfied with everything we’d managed to see that day.

Disney’s All-Star Resorts

I’ve grouped these as the ninth-best Disney Resort to visit because you can explore all three in about an hour, and easily walk between them. Like Pop Century and Art of Animation, the All-Star Resorts are all about the larger-than-life theming, with giant characters, bright colors, and a playful vibe.  Of all the Disney resorts, these are the best for a kid-focused Disney resort hopping itinerary.  And the Toy Story section (our favorite – and the section we were lucky enough to stay in!) at Movies is full of photo ops.

All-Star Movies Resort Tour Highlights:

• Movie-Themed Décor: Walk through sections inspired by Fantasia, The Love Bug, 101 Dalmatians, The Mighty Ducks, and Toy Story.
• Photo-Ops: Look for the human-size RC car in the Toy Story section and the TV photo op with the Dalmatians.
• Winner’s Circle: Stop by to see Herbie the Love Bug!

All-Star Music Resort Tour Highlights:

• Music-Themed Sections: Explore the Calypso, Jazz Inn, Rock Inn, Country Fair, and Broadway Hotel areas.
• Rock Inn: Take a photo with the classic car.
• Piano Pool: Look for the Ariel statue near the water.

All-Star Sports Resort Tour Highlights:

• Sports-Themed Décor: See giant icons in the Surf’s Up!, Hoops Hotel, Center Court, Touchdown!, and Home Run Hotel sections.
• Mickey Statue: Find the classic Mickey statue located in the courtyard.

What I Did at the All-Star Resorts:

Since we stayed at All-Star Movies, the All-Star resorts weren’t part of our main three-day resort hopping itinerary. You could easily add them on day three day (between Animal Kingdom and Saratoga Springs), but we chose to spend that time at Disney Springs. We had explored All-Star Movies on our first day, and since we sometimes hopped on whichever All-Star bus arrived first, the kids had seen some of Music and Sports while walking back to Movies too.

I still took a solo tour the morning we checked out to get some pictures. I started at All-Star Sports, quickly exploring the lobby and grounds, then refilled my resort mug before walking to All-Star Music. After checking out each themed section, the lobby, food court, and arcade, I went back to All-Star Movies, snapping a few more photos of the larger-than-life statues before heading back to pack.

Final Thoughts: The Best Disney Resorts to Visit

Seeing every Disney resort was an incredible experience, but fitting it all into three days was too much—especially for my kids. We walked more exploring the resorts than we did on our park days.

Yes, it is possible to see them all in three days, but if you actually want time to enjoy them—and not just walk through and move on—my five-day resort hopping itinerary works better. Beyond the highlights I’ve listed for each resort, there are so many other activities to discover. If you want to see the full list of everything you can do without a park ticket, check out my detailed Things to Do at Disney Resorts post.

If one of these resorts stood out to you and you’re wondering whether it’s actually worth staying at, check out my Best Disney Resorts to Stay At post. I break down the top eight resorts based on theming and location, the pros and cons of each, the perks of staying on-site, and who each one is best for.

If I were to do it again, I’d spend more time at Fort Wilderness, relax on some resort beaches, take the art tours at Animal Kingdom Lodge and Riviera, and maybe let the kids join scavenger hunts or try more table-service restaurants. Most importantly, I’d plan real breaks. Resort hopping is fun, but it didn’t leave us much time to relax at our resort.

For more travel tips and inspiration, don’t forget to follow me on Instagram, Facebook or TikTok!

More Disney Planning Resources

Resort Hopping

• Disney World Resort Hopping 2026: A Comprehensive Guide
• The 8 Best Disney Resort Hopping Itineraries
• The Ultimate Disney Resort Hopping Itinerary
• Disney Resort Hopping with Kids

Things to Do on Non-Park Days

• 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
• Disney Day Bag Packing List

Where to Stay

• The 8 Best Disney Resorts to Stay At
• The Best Disney World Value Resort
• Split Stay at Disney World Guide and Itinerary

Gluten Free

• The Best Gluten-Free Restaurants in Disney World
• ‘Ohana Gluten Free Breakfast Review
• Roundup Rodeo BBQ Gluten Free Review 2025
• Hollywood & Vine Gluten Free Breakfast Review

Disney with Autism

• The Complete Disney World Autism Guide
• The Best Disney Resorts for Autism
• Best Autism-Friendly Places to Stay Near Disney
• Disney DAS Program: A Complete Guide
• Resort Hopping with My Autistic Child