The 8 Best Disney Resorts to Stay At

Looking for the best Disney resort for your trip?

Whether you’re focused on location, theming, food, price, or the overall vibe, this list covers the 8 best Disney resorts to stay at —with pros and cons for each, plus what makes them stand out. From the best resort for families to the best Disney World resort deals, there’s something here for every trip style.

Now, I haven’t stayed at all these resorts (yet!)— but I have visited them all during three full days of Disney resort hopping. Want details on everything each resort offers? Check out my post on Things to Do at Disney Resorts. Planning your own resort hopping day? Don’t miss my Disney Resort Hopping Guide or 8 Done-For-You Itineraries.

If you want a deluxe Disney World resort on a budget, check out David’s Vacation Club Rentals. DVCR lets you rent Disney Vacation Club points so you can stay at deluxe Disney resorts for way less than booking directly through Disney. I’ve included price comparisons for the DVC resorts below so you can see how much you could save.

Go to my TikTok or YouTube channel for video tours of all the resorts, hidden gems, resort hopping itineraries, and more.

Now, let’s get into it—here are my picks for the best Disney World resorts to stay at, and why.

Table of Contents

1. Disney’s Pop Century Resort
2. Disney’s Contemporary Resort
3. Disney’s Polynesian Resort
4. Disney’s Beach Club Resort
5. Disney’s Riviera Resort
6. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort
7. Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort
8. Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort

1. Disney’s Pop Century Resort

First on my list of best resorts to stay at Disney World is Pop Century.

Sure, some resorts have more luxury, amenities, and better theming. But for me, Pop Century wins on price, location, and that fun Disney vibe. If you’re looking for the best Disney World resort on a budget, it’s hard to beat.

Let’s start with location and transportation. It’s on the Disney Skyliner, and any resort on the Skyliner makes the list for the best Disney World resort for transportation. It gives you quick, easy access to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. It’s also a quick ride to Caribbean Beach, Riviera Resort, and the BoardWalk area, where you can check out some of the best Disney World dining options, relax on a beach, or hang out in the deluxe lobbies and lounges.

Now for the theming. You’ve got oversized Disney icons and retro toy statues, a memorabilia wall that’s a walk down memory lane for the 30+ crowd, and bright colors everywhere. The whole resort just has a funky vibe (that I love). If you’re looking for the best Disney resort to stay at with kids, Pop Century is built to catch a kid’s attention—and it works.

That said, Art of Animation has Pop Century beat in the theming department, with kid-favorite movies like Cars, Finding Nemo, and the Lion King. But it usually runs $30+ more per night (which adds up to over $200 more for a week). Since Art of Animation is just a short walk across the Generation Gap Bridge, you can still explore all that theming while paying Pop Century prices.

The only time I’d recommend Art of Animation over Pop Century is if you are staying with a larger group. Pop Century only fits up to 4 guests per room, while Art of Animation has family suites. So, if you’re looking for the best Disney World resort for a family of 5 or 6, Art of Animation is the better option. It also might be worth the extra cost for families wanting to add some extra Disney magic since the suites are themed to Cars, Lion King, or Finding Nemo (plus standard Little Mermaid rooms).

Pros of Pop Century Resort

Retro theming gives it a fun, playful atmosphere
Budget-friendly, with rates starting around $200/night during value season
Pull-down table/bed setup gives you a bit more space in the room
Standard Disney World resort perks: early theme park entry, early access to book Lightning Lanes and dining reservations
Close to two of the parks (EPCOT and Hollywood Studios)
Skyliner for quicker/easier access to Hollywood Studios and EPCOT
You can ride the Skyliner to Riviera, Caribbean Beach, and Disney’s BoardWalk area
Short walk to Art of Animation for extra theming, photo ops, and playground
Quick, convenient access to other resorts for more dining options

Cons of Pop Century Resort

Theming is more geared towards adults than kids
Rooms aren’t as well themed as those at Art of Animation
Standard rooms only (sleeps up to 4 adults); no family suites
No Extended Evening Hours
Far from Magic Kingdom
Skyliner wait times can be long at peak times
Only one Quick Service dining option and one bar on-site
No water slide
No hot tub
No fitness center
No community hall
No beach

2. Disney’s Contemporary Resort

The Contemporary Resort comes in second on my list—it’s the best Disney World resort for families who want to keep the kids busy on non-park days.

Unlike Pop Century, this is a deluxe resort, so it offers more luxury than kid-focused theming. As one of the best Disney World resorts to stay at in the deluxe category, it has more amenities, more activities, and a few hidden gems. Plus, its location is one of the best! Not just because it’s close to Magic Kingdom, but also because it has direct transportation to four other resorts, which makes it my top pick for a resort hopping stay.

Let’s talk location, because that’s what puts this one at the top of my list. Sure, the monorail to Magic Kingdom is nice—but even better is the walking path that gets you there in under 10 minutes. If you’re planning to rope drop Magic Kingdom, this is the best Disney resort to stay at to be first in line for Seven Dwarfs, Space Mountain, or Peter Pan.

But Magic Kingdom access isn’t the only reason the Contemporary stands out. Being on the monorail loop also gives you quick access to the Grand Floridian and Polynesian, home to some of the best Disney World resort bars and restaurants. You can also take the boat over to Wilderness Lodge or Fort Wilderness in the afternoon. Wilderness Lodge has a hidden gem—the Carolwood Pacific Room—and Geyser Point Bar & Grill is one of the most underrated dining spots on property.

And Fort Wilderness? That’s where you’ll find some of the best Disney World resort activities—like horseback riding, archery, and more.

Pros of Contemporary Resort

It’s an iconic Disney Resort
Recently renovated with Incredibles-themed rooms
Variety of room options—great for larger groups:
- Standard rooms and suites (sleep up to 8 adults)
- Deluxe Studios with a kitchenette (sleep up to 4 adults)
- Villas with a full kitchen, larger living/dining areas, washer and dryer, and separate bedrooms (sleep up to 12 adults)
Standard Disney World Resort perks: early theme park entry and early access to book Lightning Lanes and dining reservations
Extended Evening Hours at parks (Deluxe Resort Perk)
Walk or take the monorail to Magic Kingdom
Monorail to Grand Floridian and Polynesian
Monorail to EPCOT (with a transfer at TTC)
Boat to Wilderness Lodge and Fort Wilderness
On-site character dining at Chef Mickey’s
Variety of on-site dining options: two other table service restaurants, three lounge bars, two pool bars, a quick service restaurant, and a coffee shop
Quick and convenient access to other resorts for more dining options
Pool with a waterslide (plus another if you’re staying at Bay Lake Tower)
Quiet pool with a lake view
Fitness center
Community Hall with free or low-cost activities for kids
Basketball, tennis, and pickleball courts
Beach
On-site marina with boat rentals, fishing excursions, and a Magic Kingdom Fireworks Cruise
Fireworks view from the 4th floor observation deck (or from your room if you have a park view)
Electrical Water Pageant viewing

Cons of Contemporary Resort

Not as “Disney” themed
One of the more expensive Disney resorts, with rates starting around $600/night (or $300 through DVCR) during value season
Further from the other three Disney parks
Main building can be noisy
Can get crowded since it’s on the monorail and attracts non-resort guests
Pool is basic and not heavily themed
No on-site playground

3. Disney’s Polynesian Resort

This is a resort you actually want to relax at, not just sleep in.

It’s the perfect blend of tropical luxury with some subtle Disney theming that works. Even though it comes in third on my list of the best Disney resorts, the Polynesian is my favorite. With the addition of the new Island Tower Duo Studio rooms, this may be the best Disney World resort for couples looking for a romantic, low-key stay.

While other resorts come in ahead of it for their slightly better location, this one is best if you’re planning a few slower days between parks.

The vibe is unmatched. You get tropical island energy with just enough Disney touches to remind you you’re still in the heart of Walt Disney World. There’s a beach with hammocks and swings, three pools (one with a waterslide), and a Moana-themed splash pad for the kids.

The location is another perk. You’re just a short monorail ride to Magic Kingdom (or about a 25-minute walk), and you’re next door to the Grand Floridian—which has some of the best Disney World resort restaurants and bars. And, if you get bored relaxing at your resort, you can easily monorail over to the Contemporary for more food options or hop a boat to Fort Wilderness for more activities.

Pros of Polynesian Resort

Great atmosphere
Subtle Moana theming
Variety of room options that work for larger groups:
- Rooms and Suites (up to 5 adults)
- Duo/Deluxe Studios with a kitchenette and porch or balcony (up to 5 adults)
- Villas/Bungalows with a full kitchen, separate bedrooms, washer and dryer, and larger living/dining space (up to 9 adults)
Standard Disney World Resort perks: early theme park entry and early access to book Lightning Lanes and dining reservations
Extended Evening Hours (Deluxe Resort perk)
Walk, monorail, or boat to Magic Kingdom
Short walk to the Grand Floridian
Monorail to Contemporary Resort
Monorail to EPCOT (with a transfer at the TTC)
On-site character dining at ‘Ohana
Variety of on-site dining options: two other table service restaurants, three lounge bars, two pool bars, a quick service restaurant, a coffee shop, and Pineapple Lanai (Dole Whip)
Easy access to other resorts for more dining
Pool with waterslide
Two leisure pools
Moana-themed splash pad
Beach
Volleyball court
Magic Kingdom fireworks and Electrical Water Pageant views from the beach

Cons of Polynesian Resort

Not as “Disney” themed
One of the more expensive Disney resorts, with rates starting around $550/night ($320 through DVCR) during value season
Far from the other three Disney parks
Ferry boats can be loud
Popular with non-resort guests, so it can feel crowded
No fitness center
No community hall
No on-site playground

4. Disney’s Beach Club Resort

Beach Club is the best Disney resort to stay at if you want quick park access, a more active atmosphere, and the best pool on property. It lands at number four on my list, but depending on what you’re looking for, it could easily be your top pick. If you’re travelling with teens or tweens—or planning an adult-only trip where you want activity over downtime— Disney’s Beach Club is the way to go.

Yacht Club and Beach Club share all amenities, but the theming is what sets them apart. Beach Club has a relaxed, coastal feel, while Yacht Club feels more sophisticated. Their shared pool, Stormalong Bay, is basically a mini water park: a sand-bottomed pool, lazy river, three hot tubs, and one of the tallest waterslides at a Disney resort. If you want a quieter swim, there are three smaller leisure pools across the resorts.

The location is one of the biggest perks. You’re about a 10-minute walk to EPCOT’s International Gateway—perfect if you’re trying to rope drop Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure. Hollywood Studios is also walkable (20–25 minutes) or a short boat ride away. Either way, Beach Club is one of the best Disney World resorts for families or groups who want to get to the parks without waiting for a bus.

You’re also steps away from the BoardWalk and three other resorts—including the Swan and Dolphin, which means easy access to some of the best Disney World resort restaurants. For teens and tweens, BoardWalk Inn has one of the best community halls, with free arcade games.

But with five resorts so close together and the BoardWalk drawing extra visitors, it can feel busy. If you’re traveling with younger kids or anyone with sensory sensitivities, it won’t be the best place to unwind between park days. But for older kids, teens, couples, or adult-only trips, it checks a lot of boxes.

Pros of Beach Club Resort

Relaxed, beach-themed atmosphere
Variety of room options, can accommodate larger groups
- Rooms and Suites (up to 8 adults)
- Deluxe Studios with a kitchenette (up to 5 adults)
- Villas with a full kitchen, larger living/dining areas, washer and dryer, and separate bedrooms (up to 8 adults)
One of only four dog-friendly Disney Resorts
Standard Disney World Resort perks: early theme park entry and early access to book Lightning Lanes and dining reservations
Extended Evening Hours at parks (Deluxe Resort Perk)
Walk or take a boat to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios
Walking distance to Fantasia Gardens and Fairways Miniature Golf
On-site character dining at Cape May Café
Variety of on-site dining options: two other table service restaurants, three lounge bars, a pool bar, two quick service restaurants, and an ice cream shop
Short walk to Disney’s BoardWalk, BoardWalk Inn, and the Swan and Dolphin Hotels for more dining and bar options
Stormalong Bay mini water park with a lazy river, sand-bottom pool, and large waterslide
Three leisure pools
Fitness Center
Beach
Tennis and Volleyball Courts
Marina with boat rentals, fishing excursions, and Magic Kingdom fireworks cruises

Cons of Beach Club Resort

Not as “Disney” themed
Among the more expensive Disney resorts, with rates starting around $600/night ($320 through DVCR) during value season for Beach Club
Can get crowded due to its location near the BoardWalk and multiple resorts
Skyliner access is available, but requires walking to EPCOT’s International Gateway (less convenient than resorts with direct access)
Far from Magic Kingdom
Stormalong Bay is shared between both resorts, so it may be crowded
Far from Magic Kingdom
No on-site community hall
No on-site playground

5. Disney’s Riviera Resort

If you want a sophisticated, quieter Disney resort, this is it. It makes my list because of its great location, amenities, and calm atmosphere.

At first, I didn’t think it was the best Disney resort to stay at with kids—too upscale, too boutique. But after looking at the amenities (and how close it is to more), I changed my mind.

It’s a smaller resort, which means fewer crowds and less noise. The main pool is well-themed, with a waterslide and splash pad, plus there’s a quieter leisure pool. There’s also a community room. No on-site playground, but Caribbean Beach Resort is right next door, so their playground on Caribbean Cay Island is a short walk away.

It’s the best Disney World resort for families with younger kids, neurodivergent guests, or anyone with sensory sensitivities who needs low-stimulation spaces between park days. This would’ve been the best resort for my autistic daughter if she hadn’t handled our back-to-back park days. The energy here is serene, with plenty of quiet spots to unwind—the balconies off the lobby, the lounge chairs behind the main pool, and the beach are all great for a morning coffee or decompressing after the parks.

It’s also a Skyliner resort, meaning the same location perks as Pop Century. Huge plus if you need to take a mid-day break from EPCOT or Hollywood Studios.

The only real downside?

Dining. Topolino’s Terrace is great, offering either a character breakfast or a dinner with EPCOT (and fireworks) views. Otherwise, there’s just a quick service, pool bar, and coffee shop. But with Caribbean Beach next door and the BoardWalk area a short Skyliner ride away, it’s not a dealbreaker.

Pros of Riviera Resort

Sophisticated and calm atmosphere
Subtle Disney artwork throughout
Newer resort, so the rooms feel fresh
Variety of room options, can accommodate larger groups
- Tower Studios with mini fridge/microwave and a pull-down bed (up to 2 adults)
- Deluxe Studios with a kitchenette and patio/balcony (up to 5 adults)
- Villas with a full kitchen, washer and dryer, separate bedrooms, and a jetted tub. (up to 12 adults)
Standard Disney World Resort perks: early theme park entry and early access to book Lightning Lanes and dining reservations
Extended Evening Hours at parks (Deluxe Resort Perk)
Smaller, quieter, and less crowded than other resorts
Close to two parks
Skyliner also connects to Art of Animation, Pop Century, and the BoardWalk area
Short walk to Caribbean Beach Resort
On-site character dining at Topolino’s Terrace
Quick and Convenient access to other resorts for more dining options
Easy access to other resorts for more dining options
Well-themed pool with waterslide
Well-themed S’il Vous Play kids’ water play area
A second leisure pool
Fitness center
Eventi community hall
Quiet beach
Lots of relaxing areas to lounge (balconies off the lobby, lakeside chairs behind the pool, Voyageurs’ Lounge)
Self-guided art tour
Epcot fireworks view (from Topolino’s Terrace)

Cons of Riviera Resort

Less “Disney” theming
One of the more expensive Disney resorts, with rates starting just under $500/night ($320 through DVCR) during value season
Limited on-site dining: one table service restaurant, a pool bar, a quick service restaurant, and a coffee shop
Far from Magic Kingdom
No on-site playground

6. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort

Animal Kingdom Lodge is one of the most unique resorts, and the best Disney World resort to stay at if you’ve got animal lovers in your group. As a deluxe resort, it balances luxury and kid-friendly features better than most.

This is the only Disney resort where you can drink your morning coffee on your balcony with a safari view. Zebras, giraffes, and other African wildlife roam through open savannas, viewable from many rooms and several public overlooks. The African-inspired architecture, grand lobby, and immersive theming give it a vibe different from any other Disney resort.

Dining here is top-tier—Sanaa, Boma, and Jiko are three of the top-rated spots on property.

It’s also one of the best Disney resorts to stay at with kids. With two pools with waterslides, a kids’ splash area, two community halls, a playground, and tons of free activities, you can easily keep the kids entertained without ever leaving the resort.

The only downside?

Location. If Animal Kingdom is your main focus, it’s perfect. But for EPCOT, Magic Kingdom, or Hollywood Studios, your only option is bus transportation, which makes mid-day breaks harder. That can be a dealbreaker if you’ve got younger kids who still nap or if you’re doing a park-heavy trip.

It’s a better fit for older kids/teens who can handle full park days, a non-park Disney stay, or as part of a split stay where this is your resort for the slower days.

Pros of Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort

Beautiful, relaxing atmosphere
African savanna theming throughout the resort
One of the most stunning lobbies at Disney
Savanna views with live animals
Standard Disney World Resort perks: early theme park entry and early access to book Lightning Lanes and dining reservations
Extended Evening Hours at parks (Deluxe Resort Perk)
Variety of room types—can accommodate larger groups
- Rooms and Suites (for up to 8 adults)
- Deluxe Studios- with a kitchenette (for up to 4 adults)
- Villas – with a full kitchen, larger living/dining areas, washer and dryer, and separate bedrooms. (for up to 12 adults)
Some rooms have savanna views
Close to Animal Kingdom Park
More secluded and quiet than other resorts
Variety of on-site dining options: three table service restaurants, three lounge bars, two pool bars, a quick service restaurant, plus quick service breakfast at Sanaa
No convenient access to other resorts for more dining options
Two pools with waterslides
Uwanja Camp kids’ water playground
Fitness center
Community hall at Kidani Village
Simba’s Activity Center (recreation room) at Jambo House
On-site playground
Basketball, tennis, and pickleball courts
Lots of daily kid-friendly activities
Weekday art tour in the lobby
Starlight Safari Tours (for a fee)
Quiet spaces like the Sunset Overlook Lounge and the balcony off the Jambo House lobby

Cons of Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort

One of the more expensive Disney resorts, with rates starting around $500/night during value season (but only $161 through DVCR-one of the best Disney World resort deals I found)
Far from Magic Kingdom
Bus transportation only
No beach

7. Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort

If you want the best Disney World resort on a budget, this is it.

It’s the best Disney resort to stay at if you want the Disney vibes and on-site perks without spending a fortune. The rooms are basic but recently renovated and clean, and the theming is fun. The giant statues of Toy Story, Fantasia, and 101 Dalmatians make it a hit with little ones. Out of all the All-Star Resorts, Movies has the best theming and is second only to Art of Animation when it comes to that full-immersion Disney feel.

As a Value Resort, the amenities are limited. Pools are Disney-themed, but no waterslides or hot tubs. You’ll get one quick-service food court and a pool bar—no sit-down dining. And unlike the Skyliner or Monorail resorts, it’s not easy to hop to other resorts for more variety. You can walk to the other All-Star resorts, but they offer the same setup—great if you want to check out more oversized Disney statues, but not for better dining options.

Location-wise, it’s not the best Disney resort to stay at if you’re trying to minimize travel time. Buses are your only option, and it’s not close to anything. Another downside—since it’s the cheapest, it attracts large groups (school trips, sports teams, tour groups), so it can be louder and more crowded. That said, we stayed here and had no issues—my autistic daughter handled it just fine.

If you love over-the-top Disney theming, want early park entry and free transportation, and don’t mind the lack of luxury, this is one of the best Disney World resort deals out there. It beats staying off-site every time.

Pros of All-Star Movies Resort

Fun, child-like atmosphere
One of the most “Disney” themed resorts
Standard Disney World Resort perks: early theme park entry and early access to book Lightning Lanes and dining reservations
The most budget-friendly Disney Resort, with rates starting around $150/night during value season
Recently refurbished rooms
Pull down table/bed give you a bit more space in the room
Short walk to All-Star Music and All-Star Sports
Two on-site pools, both with great Disney movie theming
Can access four more pools at All-Star Music and All-Star Sports
On-site playground

Cons of All-Star Movies Resort

Rooms only sleep up to 4 people (All-Star Music offers the most affordable Disney resort suite for up to 6 people)
Rooms are not well themed like Art of Animation
All rooms have exterior entry, which can be noisy
No Extended Evening Hours
Far from Magic Kingdom
Only offers bus transportation
Popular with school, sports, and tour groups—can be loud and busy
Only one Quick Service dining option and one bar on-site
No convenient access to other resorts for more dining options
No water slide
No hot tub
No fitness center
No community hall
No beach

8. Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort

Last on my list is Saratoga Springs Resort—a great pick if you want a quieter, more relaxing resort-focused stay. It’s not flashy, but if you’re into an upscale country club vibe, this is it.

The resort is massive, so there’s a lot of walking, but it’s a peaceful escape from the chaos of the parks. It’s the best Disney World resort to stay at for families who need space—villas here are roomy, and if you’ve got the budget, the three-bedroom Treehouse Villas put you in the middle of serene forestry.

There are great amenities here—like a spa, Disney’s golf course next door, a community hall with activities for kids, and bike/Surrey bike rentals. There are two feature pools with waterslides, three leisure pools, three kids’ splash areas, and a cute playhouse-themed playground.

The highlight of this resort?

You’re a short walk or boat ride from Disney Springs, meaning easy access to some of the best Disney World resort restaurants, bars, and shopping.

The downside?

It’s not close to the parks, and buses are your only option. That makes it less ideal for a park-heavy trip, but for a non-park stay, couples looking for quiet, or anyone just wanting more space and fewer crowds, it’s perfect.

Pros of Saratoga Springs Resort

Quiet, Relaxing Atmosphere
Variety of room options that can accommodate larger groups
- Studio/Deluxe Studios- with a kitchenette (for up to 4 adults)
- Villas – with a full kitchen, larger living/dining areas, washer and dryer, and separate bedrooms. (for up to 12 adults)
- 3-Bedroom Treehouse Villas- 10 feet off the ground, surrounded by forest, with private decks, a full kitchen, larger living/dining areas, washer and dryer, and separate bedrooms. (for up to 9 adults)
Recently renovated rooms
Standard Disney World Resort perks: early theme park entry and early access to book Lightning Lanes and dining reservations
Extended Evening Hours at parks (Deluxe Resort Perk)
Short walk to Disney Springs
A few on-site dining options: two table service restaurants, a lounge bar, three pool bars, and a quick service restaurant
Easy access to Disney Springs for more dining and shopping
Two pools with waterslides
A kid’s water play area and two splash pads
Three additional leisure pools with hot tubs
Fitness center
Community hall
Cute, playhouse-themed on-site playground
Basketball/tennis courts
Bike/Surrey bike rentals
Disney’s Lake Buena Vista Golf Course
Senses Spa

Cons of Saratoga Springs Resort

Not “Disney” themed
Large, spread-out layout—can be a long walk to the main areas
One of the more expensive Disney resorts, with rates starting around $500/night ($ through DVCR) during value season
Only offers bus transportation to all parks
Far from Magic Kingdom
No beach

Disney has a ton of resorts, but these eight stand out.

Whether you want to be close to the parks, surrounded by classic Disney theming, stretch your budget, focus on non-park days, or score a luxury resort stay without the deluxe price (thanks to David’s Vacation Club Rentals), these are the best Disney resorts to stay at.

Need ideas for a day at the resorts? Don’t miss these:

Planning to do some resort hopping? Check these out:

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