The Best Disney Resorts to Visit

In January, my kids and I spent three days touring all the Walt Disney World resorts. Yes, every single one.  After exploring them all, I’ve narrowed down my top ten picks for the best Disney Resorts to visit for free:

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 while 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 everything 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, enjoying the pools, 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, and what makes those ten resorts the best Disney Resorts to visit while resort hopping, and how the rest of the resorts ranked

Day 1 – Magic Kingdom Area

We started our Disney resorts 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 perfect place to begin.

7:30 am: Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

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.

This is one of the best Disney resort lobbies we visited—and it’s especially impressive at Christmas. The tree is massive, and the lights hanging from the bridge over Copper Creek are stunning (and make a great photo spot). Even outside the holidays, the lobby alone is worth the stop. Between the architecture, the outdoor spaces, and the dining options, it’s an easy resort to linger at.

Highlights of a Wilderness Lodge Tour:

• 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.

We started day one at Wilderness Lodge, taking an Uber there to save time.

I was excited to see the lobby was still decorated for Christmas, which made for great photos on the Copper Creek bridge. We explored outside, finding the waterfall before picking up our mobile-ordered breakfast from Roaring Fork. We all filled up our resort mugs (a must-have while resort hopping since they can be refilled at any resort quick service Disney Resort restaurant), before heading back out to explore some more.

We then walked over to Boulder Ridge Villas, where we found our first hidden Mickey in the lobby. We found the Carolwood Pacific Room, and the kids played a tabletop game before we headed back outside. On our way to the water taxi to Magic Kingdom, we passed through Geyser Point Bar & Grill. It was closed, but since it’s open-air, we could still get a good look inside. It looked so relaxing with its great view. We also walked past Fire Rock Geyser but missed the hourly eruption.

From there, we enjoyed the scenic walk across the bridges to the dock and took the water taxi to Magic Kingdom.

9:52 am: Disney’s Polynesian Resort

Number five on my list of the best Disney Resorts to visit is the perfect place to unwind: The Polynesian.  If you’re staying in the Magic Kingdom area and only have time for one quick Disney Resort tour- this is the one I would recommend. 

I loved the lobby here. It has such a calm, relaxing vibe. With the tiki statues, flowers, and lush gardens, it feels like a tropical island rather than a theme park resort. The beach is also a great spot to watch the fireworks at the end of the day. Plus, breakfast at ‘Ohana is a must-do if you want character dining on a non-park day.

Tip: Take the water taxi from Magic Kingdom for great views of the Grand Floridian, the Island Tower, and the overwater bungalows.

Highlights of a Polynesian Resort Tour:

• 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.

We took a water taxi from Magic Kingdom to the Polynesian because I wanted to get a good view of the overwater bungalows. We started with a walk through the Grand Ceremonial House, grabbing free leis from the front desk. I took a walk out the front entrance and found beautifully landscaped gardens and water features.

Next, we walked along the beach for a closer look at the bungalows. On the way back, the kids tested one of the beach hammocks. It looked relaxing, but it sagged so low it wasn’t very comfortable. With an hour before our late character breakfast reservation, we walked over to the new Island Tower. After taking in the luxurious lobby, we took a short break to put our feet up in a cozy lounge area.

After that, we went back to the main building, looked around the second-floor shops, and checked out the views of the lobby from above before heading into ‘Ohana for our Lilo and Stitch breakfast.

1:24 pm: Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort

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.

While it is worth stopping here to see the lobby during a monorail tour, it didn’t make my top ten list for the best Disney Resorts to visit. There simply isn’t as much to do for free compared to other locations. However, it does offer some of the finest Disney Resorts dining options, making it a must-stop for foodies.

Highlights of a Grand Floridian Resort Tour:

• 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.

We walked from the Polynesian to the Grand Floridian so we could see the wedding pavilion. It was closed so we didn’t get to see inside, but it’s still worth checking out the outside of it. This also gave us a chance to stop into the DVC lobby and get a picture of the Mary Poppins fountain. Then, we took a much-needed break in some lounge chairs on the beach, enjoying the views of Magic Kingdom across the water, before heading to the main lobby.

Inside, I was excited to see the Christmas decorations still up, though the famous gingerbread house was already gone. We again checked out what was outside the front entrance and found an antique car and carriage we got pictures with. Then we headed upstairs to browse the shops before catching the monorail.

2:05 pm: Disney’s Contemporary Resort

I’ve wanted to tour the Contemporary ever since my first Disney trip when I got 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.

The Contemporary Resort is worth stopping at if you’re doing a monorail tour- but not worth going out of your way for since there isn’t much to do while resort hopping that you can’t find elsewhere. It is my second pick for the best resort to stay at though. The location alone makes it stand out. It has a small beach, a community room for kids, and some of the best transportation options on property. You can also walk to Magic Kingdom in ten minutes or less, which is hard to beat.

Highlights of a Contemporary Resort Tour:

• 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).

We started out exploring the fourth-floor Grand Canyon Concourse when we got off the monorail. After stopping in to the Fantasia gift shop so Zen could pick out a souvenir, we found the observation deck and checked out the view of Magic Kingdom. Then we crossed over the Skyway Bridge to Bay Lake Tower, where we found the Community Hall. The kids were ready for a break, so Brie relaxed in front of the TV and Zen and I made custom Disney pins for just $1 each.

We went back outside, and lucked out finding a PhotoPass photographer who was just setting up at the Mickey ear sculpture. After getting our first family photo of the trip, we went back inside to see the first-floor lobby. We stopped to refill our resort mugs and grabbed Mickey bars at Contempo Café. The we went for a quick walk along the beach before catching the water taxi to our last stop of the day.

4:43 pm: Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort

While we didn’t have enough time here to check out all the activities or fully explore the resort- it’s number three on my list of the best Disney Resorts to visit because of how much there is to do here. You could easily spend a full resort day here which makes it well worth a stop while resort hopping (or maybe even visiting for a full day).

This was Zen’s favorite stop of the day. She loved seeing the horses.

Highlights of a Fort Wilderness Resort Tour:

• 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.

We took a quick walk along the beach, the biggest of all the Disney Resort beaches. Then we headed to the Tri-Circle-D Ranch horse barn. 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. Before leaving the barn, I mobile-ordered us dinner from Trail’s End, and we took our time walking to pick it up. Zen and I tried the ribs, which weren’t the greatest, and Brie got the pulled pork on a bun.

We finished off our Fort Wilderness Resort tour with the starlight horse-drawn wagon ride. I had thought it would take us around the campground so we could see a bit more of it, but it’s more of a wilderness tour which was a relaxing surprise. By the time we finished the rise, the kids were done for the day so we took the ferry boat to Magic Kingdom, then bused back to our resort.

Even though we only visited five resorts, my Fitbit logged 23,895 steps, more than any of our park days. Resort hopping is fun, but it’s definitely not a rest day.

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.

7:48 am: Disney’s Pop Century Resort

Day two started with Pop Century- a resort I was looking forward to seeing. It’s number four on my list of the best resorts to visit—and number one on my list of best Disney resorts to stay at.

The lobby is fun, with bright colors, a retro vibe, and vintage memorabilia that’s a walk down memory lane for adults. Outside, kids will enjoy oversized icons from different decades. You’ll find Disney classics like Lady and the Tramp, The Jungle Book, and Roger Rabbit. My kids loved the giant sculptures, even if they had no clue who Roger Rabbit was! I just loved the nostalgia of it all.

Highlights of a Pop Century Resort Tour:

• Lobby Memory Wall: Check out the shadow boxes full of vintage toys and fads.
• 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.

We again took an Uber there to save time. We started out in the lobby, where the kids relaxed in the waiting area, giving me time to get a good look at everything in the lobby’s memorabilia-filled shadow boxes. Then all three of us walked around the grounds, going through each decade in order and stopping for photos.

From there, we followed the path around Hourglass Lake to Art of Animation, reading trivia signs along the way.

8:51 am: Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

Art of Animation is number two on my list of the ten best Disney Resorts to visit. This is the most immersive resort on property. If your kids love the movies, the theming here is unmatched. It’s a must-see for the Cars section and Finding Nemo playground alone.

Walking around this resort is like stepping into a Disney movie – especially in the Cars area.  Plus, it has two themed playgrounds- the perfect free activity when your resort hopping with kids.  Even if you’re not doing a full resort hopping day, it’s worth taking a Skyliner ride to see on a non-park day if you’re staying at any of the Skyliner or BoardWalk resorts.

Highlights of an Art of Animation Resort Tour:

• 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).

This was the resort I was most excited to see. Exploring the grounds here was such a fun and immersive experience- we took our time so we could take it all in. Again the kids relaxed in the waiting area, while I checked out the lobby to see the Disney sketches and artwork lining the walls. Then they joined me to tour the grounds.

We started in the Cars section, which had the best photo ops with Lightning McQueen and all other characters (getting a picture with Fillmore was the highlight for me). From there, we moved to Finding Nemo and stopped at the Righteous Reef playground (one of the best-themed playgrounds on Disney property) for the kids to play. In the Lion King section, we posed for pictures at the Boneyard playground, then we finished our tour with the Little Mermaid area, getting pictures with Ariel’s treasures along the way.

Before leaving, we stopped at Landscape of Flavors to refill our mugs and grab gluten-free  cupcakes. Then it was off to the Skyliner.

10:50 am: 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 when the busier resorts feel overwhelming.

The elegant European-style lobby is worth stopping in to see if you’re already in the area or heading there for a meal. The entire resort feels calm and serene, 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 at a Skyliner resort with kids, it’s worth the trip just to spend some time in the community hall.

Highlights of a Riviera Resort Tour:

• 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.

We started out at the Skyliner atrium walkway, stopping to see the mosaics and fountains on our way to the main building. Inside, we took a quick look around the lobby (which was pretty busy at the time), then found a balcony that had beautiful views of gardens, fountains, and courtyards. The kids were ready for a break, so we found the Eventi Community Room, where they watched a movie and colored while I explored more.

I went back upstairs, were I found the Voyagers’ Lounge, a cute little library area, and looked at some Walt Disney photos in the hallway. I , then went back outside, where I found an area behind the pool with lawn chairs to relax in while taking in the views of the lake. After walking over to get a quick look at the beach area, I went back inside to get the kids. We took a quick look at the pool and splash pad (Brie really loved checking out all the unique pools at the resorts) before walking over to Caribbean Beach.

11:43 am: 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 Disney resorts to visit while resort hopping, mostly because of Caribbean Cay Island.  Not only does the island have a decent-sized playground, but it also has lounge chairs and hammocks, making it an ideal place to take a break. Even a simple walk around the island is beautiful.

Beyond Caribbean Cay, each section of the resort has its own small beach, giving you plenty of quiet spots to stop and relax.  It is a great stop on any Disney Resort hopping itinerary if you need a break from the crowd, and Skyliner access makes it easy to visit. Just be prepared for a lot of walking if you want to see the entire property.

Highlights of a Caribbean Beach Resort Tour:

• 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.

On our way to the main building, we stopped to check out the Martinique buildings and beach. We took a minute to try out the hammocks. they were much better than the ones at the Polynesian, no sagging at all. We also got a look at the lighthouse and dock before heading inside.

I mobile ordered us lunch, then walked around the lobby while the kids watched a Classic Mickey movie in the kids’ area. Once our mobile order was ready, we picked it up from 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.  After lunch, we walked to Caribbean Cay Island, where Brie played on the playground. With more time, this would have been a great place to relax. We then cut through the Jamaica section to reach the second Skyliner station.

1:38 pm: 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.

Highlights of a Swan and Dolphin Hotels Tour:

• 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.

The Skyliner brought us to Epcot’s International Gateway. From there, we walked to the Dolphin and Swan.

We stopped to take in the view and get pictures of the distinctive triangle Dolphin building and massive fountain, before heading inside to find the lobby. On our way, we found a Moana Te Fiti display. Then, the kids sat by the dolphin fountain in the lobby, while I looked around and took a peek out the front entrance. On our way back outside, we found a Hollywood Studios Galaxy’s Edge backdrop with a droid statue, so we stopped to take advantage of that photo op.

We got some pictures of both hotels while walking between them, then went inside 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) . The kids took another break, while I checked out the swan fountain in the lobby and another one outside the front entrance.

Then we wandered over to the beach, where Brielle played on the playground for a bit. All three of us took a break- relaxing in lounge chairs on the beach and watching the swan boats go by (an activity only available for guest of the hotels). We found another photo op- this time a Dolphin and Swan Resort frame with the lake and hotels behind it on our walk back towards the BoardWalk.  

3:13 pm: Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts

Neither of these resorts made my list of the best resorts to visit. However, after seeing the massive Stormalong Bay pool, the Yacht Club is at the top of my list of the best to stay at.

I love the Yacht Club’s nautical theming. It has an elegant, relaxing vibe. The Beach Club lobby isn’t as impressive.  Both are worth a quick stop if you are walking around Crescent Lake, but there isn’t much else to do here for visitors. The beach is nice, though busier than other resorts.

Highlights of a Yacht & Beach Club Resorts Tour:

• 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.

We walked past the marina on our way to the Yacht Club, stopping for some views of the BoardWalk. Inside, I was happy to see the Christmas train display was still up. I wandered around, finding a ship’s wheel photo op and a quiet library area upstairs while the kids rested. After some pictures, we headed back outside, where we walked around Stormalong Bay to see what we could from outside the fence, then headed down to the beach.

Then we headed into the Beach Club. I looked around the lobby and took a peek out the front doors, where I found another antique car, while the kids relaxed. Then, we refilled our resort mugs and grabbed dinner at the Beach Club Marketplace. The gluten-free chili cheese dogs, which I had been looking forward to, did not disappoint.

5:07 pm: 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.  This would be a great resort to stay at with teenagers- with the community hall and the theming of the main pool. But the BoardWalk area is really busy, which makes it a bit less appealing while resort hopping if you’re hoping for a more relaxing day.

Highlights of a BoardWalk Inn Resort Tour:

• 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.

Our final stop on day two was the BoardWalk. Before heading to the resort, we checkout out the Screen Door gift shop and Wyland galleries. Then we went inside the BoardWalk Inn lobby. I loved the lively carnival-style energy here; it feels completely different from the other resorts. I found the carousel and roller coaster models, then I went out on the balcony off the lobby to check out the view.

We walked around the grounds, stopping so Brie could get a look at the roller coaster themed waterslide at the Luna Park Pool, before the kids took a play break to play at Luna Park. Then we found the Community Hall, where the kids took a long break watching a movie. By this point they were too tired to even play the games, and 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.

8:09 am: 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 is the perfect place to explore on a Surrey bike or take a leisurely walk around. Along with the bikes, they offer dockside fishing and horse-drawn carriage rides.

Highlights of a Riverside Tour:

• 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.

Tip: Walk along the Sassagoula River to get to the French Quarter. You’ll get great views of the mansion-style buildings and lush grounds.

Since I was off on my own for the morning, I decided to just stick to Disney transportation instead of Uber and bused to Port Orleans Riverside, transferring at Hollywood Studios. I started my resort tour with a walk through the lobby and gift shop, where I grabbed gloves to deal with the cold. From there, I headed outside to explore Ol’ Man Island. This area is fun to wander, with winding paths, bridges, and plenty of spots to take a break. I really loved the hammocks along the walkway. It would have been a perfect place to relax if the kids had been with me.

When I finished exploring, I went back inside to fill up my resort mug with some more coffee to keep me warm on my walk. Then, I took the walking path to Port Orleans French Quarter, taking in views of Riverside’s grand, mansion-style buildings along the way. The area was so quiet and peaceful, it was a great way to start my day.

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-free beignets too!).

Highlights of a French Quarter Tour:

• 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

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.

9:59 am: Disney’s Old Key West Resort

The bottom of my list of the Best Resorts to visit at Disney is Old Key West. It just doesn’t offer much you can’t find at other resorts with better locations.

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. It has a relaxed, beach-style vibe.  The lobby is cute and very laid-back. Nothing grand or dramatic here. The back area feels more like a lounge, with bookshelves, couches, and tables, making it a comfortable spot to sit and relax.

Highlights of an Old Key West Resort Tour:

• 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.

From Disney Springs, I took a bus to Old Key West. My plan had been to have breakfast at Olivia’s Café, but since I was alone (and still full from my beignets), I decided to skip it and just explore.  I accidentally got off the bus at the wrong stop, but it turned out to be 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 first, which is laid out differently than most resorts. There’s an outdoor walkway that leads to the docks, and the actual lobby is in a separate building off to the side. Back outside, I took a quick look inside the Conch Flats Community Hall to see how it compared to all the other Community Halls we’d seen. Then I walked over to get a look at the pool area and playground. I noticed some hammocks near the tennis courts, which would have been perfect for a relaxing break, but I didn’t need to stop yet.

After that, it was back to Disney Springs. I spent about an hour shopping on my own, then texted the kids. They felt rested and ready to explore, so I bused back to our resort, grabbing us lunch on my way to the room.

1:08 pm: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Animal Kingdom Lodge is just incredible – the animals, the art, the whole vibe!  This lobby is another favorite of mine- it’s breathtaking, with a massive window wall overlooking the savanna, lots of African artifacts, and a grand fireplace. 

This resort is number one on my list of the best Disney Resorts to visit because it is such a unique experience. The grand lobby is full of things to see, the Sunset Overlook Lounge has even more, 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.

Highlights of an Animal Kingdom Lodge Tour:

• 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.

We, once again, took an Uber to save time, knowing we’d need a while to see it all. There’s a free lobby art tour at 11:00 am on weekdays, but we had missed it so we explored the lobby on our own. The kids were more interested in looking around this lobby than they had been in most of the others, so we stayed together at first. Then, they took a break in front of the TV, while I went to find the Sunset Overlook Lounge, which has even more artifacts and exhibits. On my way back to the kids I also found a balcony with a couple rocking chairs and a great view.

Then the kids and I headed outside to the Arusha Savanna where we saw some zebras. Next, we walked over to the Uzima Savanna, where we watched giraffes, then found some flamingos. Brie noticed the Hakuna Matata Playground as we were passing it, so we stopped so she could try out the slide. Then we went inside to find Simba’s Activity Center, but the kids weren’t interested in doing any of the activities. Before leaving, we stopped at The Mara to grab Zebra Domes, as I had heard they were a must-try, and refill our resort mugs. From there, we caught a bus back to Disney Springs.

2:28 pm: Disney Springs

The kids and I took a break from our Disney Resort hopping to do some souvenir shopping 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.

3:41 pm: Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort

This resort didn’t make my resort hopping must-see list, but it is on my list of the best Disney resorts to stay at. This resort is massive and very pretty, but it can feel a bit plain compared to others. While it would be a great home base if you love Disney Springs, as a resort-hopping stop, it’s not a must-do unless you’re in the area.

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 a great spot to try out the Surrey Bikes or take a break in the Community Hall.

Tip: Walk over from Disney Springs to explore the grounds and see the New York–themed buildings along the path.

Highlights of a Saratoga Springs Resort Tour:

• 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.

Once we were finished at Disney Springs, we walked over to Saratoga Springs. On the way to the lobby, we noticed a large racehorse statue and found another antique carriage. The lobby here isn’t a grand one like the other Disney lobby’s, but the horse artwork fits the resort’s theming. We didn’t spend much time in here before heading over to Community Hall, where Zen and I each picked out a Disney ceramic magnet to paint once we got home.

Next, we finally got the chance to take a Surrey Bike tour. It was such a fun way to see the 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.

Once our bike time was up, we were pretty tired, so we took the bus back to Disney Springs to transfer to a bus to the last stop on our Disney Resorts tour.

6:11 pm: 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.

Highlights of a Coronado Springs Resort Tour:

• 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.

We started our tour by walking through the El Centro lobby to check out the fountain. Then we headed out to the back to explore the grounds before it got too dark. We stopped on the bridge over Lago Dorado to take in the view of Three Bridges Bar and Grill and 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 just enjoy the views of it from the bridges. Instead, we 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 to our resort, we stopped into the Gran Destino Tower, checking out both the first and second floors of the 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

Like Pop Century and Art of Animation, the All-Star Resorts feature larger-than-life theming. You’ll find giant characters, bright colors, and a playful vibe. Of all the Disney resorts, these are the best fit for a kid-focused Disney resort hopping itinerary, thanks to their bold, cartoonish style.

I’ve grouped these as the ninth-best Disney Resort to visit because you can explore all three in about an hour. They are located right next to each other, making them an easy addition to your day. All-Star Movies is also on my list of best resorts to stay at, especially for families.

All-Star Movies Resort

The Toy Story section was our favorite (and the section we were lucky enough to stay in!)! It is full of incredible photo ops.

Highlights of an All-Star Movies Resort Tour:

• 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!

Disney’s All-Star Music

While Movies is my top choice, I really enjoyed the sculptures here as well.

Highlights of an All-Star Music Resort Tour:

• 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.

Disney’s All-Star Sports

This is a must-visit for sports fans.

Highlights of an All-Star Sports Resort Tour:

• 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.

Since we stayed at All-Star Movies, the All-Star resorts weren’t part of our three-day resort hopping itinerary. You could easily add these three resorts on the third day (between Animal Kingdom and Saratoga Springs), but we chose to spend time at Disney Springs instead.  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.

But I still took a solo tour the morning we checked out to get some pictures.

I started at All-Star Sports, walking along the path in front of the resorts. I took a a quick look at the lobby, before walking around the grounds. After heading back inside to refill my resort mug, I cut through the parking lot to All-Star Music. I walked through each themed section and again took a quick look at the lobby, food court, and arcade. I finished at All-Star Movies, taking a few more pictures of the larger-than-life statues before heading back to our room 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 a lot—especially for my kids. We actually walked more exploring resorts than we did on 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 itineraryworks 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 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.

Don’t forget: You can stay at Deluxe resorts—like the Polynesian or Riviera—for 30–50% less than booking direct. If one of the deluxe resorts caught your attentions, before you book, take a look at David’s Vacation Club Rentals. Same resort. Same perks. Just without the “fancy” price tag.

Looking for tips on where to stay at Disney? Check out my recommendations:

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

Want more Resort Hopping help? 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

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

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!