Disney World Resort Guide

Where We’ve Stayed and What We Loved (or Didn’t)

Welcome to my evolving guide to all the Disney World resorts my family has stayed at, from budget-friendly basics to villa-level splurges. This post will grow over time as we explore new resorts, revisit old favorites, and discover what works best for our family travel style.

Whether you’re planning your first trip or your fifteenth, this ranking is built on real experiences, practical pros and cons, and a few Mickey Waffle-fueled opinions.

⭐ All-Star Music Resort

Explore All-Star Music Resort on Disney.com
Budget-Friendly | Kid-Themed | No-Frills Fun

Our stay at All-Star Music was simple, cheerful, and surprisingly smooth.

• Pros: Affordable, fun theming for kids, great customer service
• Cons: No frills, smaller rooms, bus-only transportation
• Best For: Budget-conscious families who want Disney magic without the price tag

🌵 Coronado Springs Resort

Discover Coronado Springs Resort on Disney.com
Adult-Friendly | Stylish | Pre-Gran Destino

We stayed here multiple times before kids, and it always felt like a hidden gem.

• Pros: Peaceful vibe, great for couples, solid amenities
• Cons: Haven’t stayed since Gran Destino Tower opened, curious how it’s changed
• Best For: Adults or couples looking for a quieter, upscale experience without deluxe pricing

🏝 Caribbean Beach Resort

Visit Caribbean Beach Resort on Disney.com
Sprawling | Relaxed | Caribbean Vibes

This resort is massive, and that’s both a perk and a challenge.

• Pros: Laid-back atmosphere, great pool, delicious Caribbean food, Skyliner
• Cons: Lots of walking
• Best For: Families who don’t mind walking and want a chill resort with great food

🏕 Cabins at Fort Wilderness

Check out the Cabins at Fort Wilderness Resort on Disney.com
Rustic | Spacious | Underrated Gem

Camping without the tent, and with a full kitchen.

• Pros: Budget-friendly for larger families, boat to Magic Kingdom, horseback riding
• Cons: Huge property, rent a golf cart, trust me
• Best For: Families who want space, nature, and a unique Disney experience

🎷 Port Orleans Riverside & French Quarter

Relax at Port Orleans Riverside Resort on Disney.com
Favorite Resort | Foodie-Friendly | Disney Springs Access

This is our home base. We’ve stayed here the most and it never disappoints.

• Pros: Great quick service food, boat to Disney Springs, Riverside lounge activities, beignets at French Quarter
• Cons: No 1-bedroom villas (we wish!), limited room types
• Best For: Families who want charm, convenience, and a little Cajun flair

⛳ Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa

Tee off at Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa on Disney.com
Golfers’ Paradise | Walk to Disney Springs | Villa Comfort

This one’s all about location and space.

• Pros: Villas on the golf course, walkable to Disney Springs, great for golfers
• Cons: Limited on-site food options (but Disney Springs makes up for it)
• Best For: Families who want villa space and easy access to shopping/dining

🎡 Boardwalk Villas

Go back in time at Boardwalk Villas on Disney.com
Epcot Access | Nightlife | Mixed Experience

We loved the location but hit a few snags during our stay.

• Pros: Walk to Epcot, fun Boardwalk atmosphere
• Cons: Limited food options due to closures, felt a bit quiet
• Best For: Adults or older kids who want nightlife and park proximity

🦒 Animal Kingdom Lodge Villas (Kidani Village)

Take a trek at Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village on Disney.com
Wild Views | Amazing Dining | Family Favorite

This one’s a showstopper for kids and foodies alike.

• Pros: Safari views, massive pool, Jiko’s filet mignon = best ever
• Cons: Far from most parks, large property
• Best For: Families who want a unique resort experience and don’t mind longer travel times

⚓ Beach Club Villas (Not Yet Stayed)

Sail away at Beach Club Villas on Disney.com
On Our Radar | Epcot Proximity | Better Dining

We haven’t stayed here yet, but it’s high on our list.

• Pros: Walk to Epcot, better food options than Boardwalk
• Cons: TBD – we’ll update once we stay
• Best For: Park hoppers and food lovers looking for deluxe convenience

📌 Final Thoughts & Tips

• Quick Service Food: Generally solid across all resorts, Mickey Waffles are universal.
• With Kids: If budget allows, we splurge for 1-bedroom villas. The extra space and sanity are worth it.
• Adjoining Rooms: A good option as kids get older and more independent.
• Choosing a Resort:
  • Want to walk to Epcot? Go Boardwalk, Yacht, or Beach Club.
  • Prefer Disney Springs access? Riverside, French Quarter, or Saratoga Springs.
  • Love pool days and downtime? Look for big pool areas and chill vibes.
  • Park hopper or Magic Kingdom fan? Consider Fort Wilderness or Animal Kingdom Lodge.

🔄 This Post Will Be Updated!

As we explore more Disney World resorts and revisit favorites, this guide will grow with fresh insights, photos, and practical tips. Bookmark it, share it, and don’t forget to check back often.