The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to Walt Disney World Resorts
Walt Disney World is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the world, and for good reason. With its magical theme parks, world-class attractions, and immersive experiences, it's no wonder that millions of visitors flock to Disney World every year. And, for those who want to stay in the heart of the magic, there are a variety of resort options to choose from. In this article, we're about to take a look at the top resorts at Walt Disney World.
1. Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is the most luxurious and expensive resort at Walt Disney World, and for good reason. Located on the shores of Seven Seas Lagoon, this Victorian-style resort evokes the elegance and grandeur of turn-of-the-century Florida. The Grand Floridian features 867 guest rooms, including club-level suites and luxurious villas with private balconies and views of the lagoon. The resort boasts a world-class spa, multiple pools, several dining options, and even a private beach. But perhaps the most impressive feature of the Grand Floridian is its proximity to the Magic Kingdom, which is just a short monorail ride away. Check out this great article on someone’s stay in one of the rooms!
2. Disney's Polynesian Village Resort
Disney's Polynesian Village Resort is another deluxe resort located on the shores of Seven Seas Lagoon. This tropical-themed resort features 847 guest rooms, including overwater bungalows inspired by the South Pacific. The Polynesian Village Resort boasts several dining options, including the popular 'Ohana restaurant, which serves a family-style breakfast and dinner. The resort also offers a world-class spa, multiple pools, and access to a private beach. One of the highlights of staying at the Polynesian Village Resort is its proximity to the Magic Kingdom, which can be reached by monorail or boat.
3. Disney's Contemporary Resort
Disney's Contemporary Resort is one of the most iconic and recognizable resorts at Walt Disney World, thanks in part to its futuristic design and monorail that runs through the center of the building. This deluxe resort features 655 guest rooms, including club-level suites and luxurious villas with views of the Magic Kingdom. The Contemporary Resort boasts several dining options, including the popular California Grill, which offers panoramic views of the Magic Kingdom fireworks. The resort also features multiple pools, a world-class spa, and access to a private beach. And of course, its proximity to the Magic Kingdom is unparalleled.
4. Disney's Yacht Club Resort
Disney's Yacht Club Resort is a deluxe resort located within walking distance of Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios. Inspired by the seaside towns of New England, the Yacht Club features 630 guest rooms, including club-level suites and villas with views of the resort's marina or Stormalong Bay, one of the largest resort pools at Walt Disney World. The Yacht Club boasts several dining options, including the popular Yachtsman Steakhouse. The resort also features access to a private beach, a world-class spa, and easy access to the BoardWalk entertainment district.
5. Disney's Beach Club Resort
Disney's Beach Club Resort is another deluxe resort located within walking distance of Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios. This seaside-inspired resort features 583 guest rooms, including club-level suites and villas with views of the resort's marina or Stormalong Bay. The Beach Club boasts several dining options, including the popular Cape May Cafe, which serves a seafood buffet. The resort also features access to a private beach, a world-class spa, and easy access to the BoardWalk entertainment district.
6. Disney's BoardWalk Inn
Disney's BoardWalk Inn is a deluxe resort located on the BoardWalk entertainment district, within walking distance of Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios. The BoardWalk Inn evokes the charm and nostalgia of turn-of-the-century Atlantic City, with its seaside-inspired architecture and carnival-themed decor. The resort features 378 guest rooms, including club-level suites and villas with views of the BoardWalk or the resort's courtyard. The BoardWalk Inn boasts several dining options, including the popular Flying Fish restaurant. The resort also features multiple pools, a world-class spa, and access to the BoardWalk entertainment district.
7. Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge
Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge is a deluxe resort located near Disney's Animal Kingdom theme park. This African-inspired resort features 972 guest rooms, including club-level suites and villas with views of the resort's savannas, where guests can observe giraffes, zebras, and other wildlife. The Animal Kingdom Lodge boasts several dining options, including the popular Jiko - The Cooking Place, which serves African-inspired cuisine. The resort also features multiple pools, a world-class spa, and access to a variety of cultural and educational programs.
8. Disney's Wilderness Lodge
Disney's Wilderness Lodge is a deluxe resort located near Magic Kingdom, inspired by the beauty and grandeur of the American Northwest. The resort features 727 guest rooms, including club-level suites and villas with views of the resort's courtyard or the surrounding forests. The Wilderness Lodge boasts several dining options, including the popular Artist Point restaurant, which serves Pacific Northwest-inspired cuisine. The resort also features multiple pools, a world-class spa, and easy access to Magic Kingdom via boat or bus.
9. Disney's Coronado Springs Resort
Disney's Coronado Springs Resort is a moderate resort located near Disney's Animal Kingdom theme park. This Spanish colonial-inspired resort features 1,917 guest rooms, including club-level suites and villas with views of the resort's lake or the surrounding gardens. The Coronado Springs Resort boasts several dining options, including the popular Toledo - Tapas, Steak & Seafood restaurant. The resort also features multiple pools, a world-class spa, and access to a variety of cultural and educational programs.
10. Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort
Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort is a moderate resort located near Disney's Hollywood Studios. This tropical-inspired resort features 1,536 guest rooms, including pirate-themed rooms for families. The Caribbean Beach Resort boasts several dining options, including the popular Sebastian's Bistro, which serves Caribbean-inspired cuisine. The resort also features multiple pools, including one with a pirate-themed water play area, and access to a variety of recreational activities.
Walt Disney World offers a wide range of resort options, from the luxurious Grand Floridian Resort & Spa to the value-priced All-Star Resorts. No matter which resort you choose, you'll be immersed in the magic and wonder of Disney, with easy access to the theme parks, dining, and entertainment options. When deciding on a resort, consider your budget, preferred level of luxury, and location within the Walt Disney World property. Whether you choose a grand and opulent resort or a fun and whimsical value resort, you're sure to have a magical and unforgettable Disney vacation.
