I love Disney and I love staying on property! Even as a Disney local live for Disney staycations! Someone has to do the hard work reviewing resorts around here!
Here are my top Five Disney World Resorts in no particular order. Although let’s face it, if money were no object we’d stay Deluxe EVERY.SINGLE.TIME!
1. Disneys Yacht Club Resort
Disney’s Yacht Club is on my list of top five favorites resorts for a number of reasons. But you should note, it’s quickly followed up by Disney’s Beach Club Resort since they share all of the same amenities. I picked Disney’s Yacht Club as my favorite because I prefer its room decor over Disney’s Beach Club. But truly, either will do!
These two resorts sit behind Epcot World Showcase with easy access into Epcot via the International Gateway.
I love Disney’s Yacht Club Resort for its resort-style pool, Stormalong Bay, complete with sandy bottoms, a lazy river, entertainment for the kids and kids alike, a pirate slide that spans across the outside walkway, a full-service bar, and food with poolside service from Hurricane Hannah’s! Need I go on?
While relaxing poolside you’ll enjoy the views of the Boardwalk and boats sailing by as they deliver busy park goers to Epcot and Hollywood Studios. I feel like I’m on vacation just thinking about it!
2. Disneys Polynesian Resort
Disney’s Polynesian Resort is right up there at the top of favorite resorts for many of the same reasons as Yacht Club.
The Polynesian’s Lava Pool is a resort-style pool with a large slide and views of Disney’s Magic Kingdom and Cinderella’s Castle. Could anything scream more of a fairytale vacation?
Disneys Polynesian Resort is my favorite place to watch the nightly fireworks when I’m not in the parks and also home to my favorite quick service dining option, Captain Cooks.
I love the Coconut Meatballs (gluten-free I might add) and head outside to Trader Sams Grogg Grotto patio to enjoy an evening of live music and views of Magic Kingdom. Again, vacation bliss!
3. Disney’s Caribbean Beach
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort and Disney’s Port Orleans – French Quarter are a toss-up for me these days. They’re both moderate resorts and boast a handful of reason to claim a spot on my favorites list. But with the recent upgrades made to Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, I’ve come to love it a whole lot more!
The rooms don’t scream “wow” to me but the outdoor lounge and pool bar does! Some nights you’ll even experience live music to completely sweep you away to the Caribbean.
And with its newest transportation option, the Disney Skyliner opening September 29th, it’s now moved ahead of Disney’s Port Orleans Resort on my favorites list. If I can avoid getting on a bus to get to the parks, I’m all ears!
4. Disneys Port Orleans French Quarter
Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter still lives on in my top five Disney resorts list for its distinct theming, uniqueness and all the beauty that surrounds it.
I love French Quarters vibrant colors, cobblestone streets, and jazz backdrops. The pool and splash pad will make any kid excited to jump in! And don’t forget the beignets! They even have Gluten-free options here!
5. Disneys Pop Century Resort
And finally, number five. Disneys Pop Century Resort.
This value resort sits at the top of my favorites list for reasons far different than its counterparts. It doesn’t scream luxury and the pool is simply a pool but when you’re looking for a Disney vacation with open to close park days and minimal time off, this resort will do the trick.
The recently renovated rooms bring out a little more class in this resort and offer families a place to sit and sleep with the addition of the murphy bed (table turned queen size bed with the pull of a handle). If you’re staying value when you visit Walt Disney World, this is the place to do it!
So there you have it, my top five Disney World resorts to fit all budgets and vacation styles.
Can I tell you all the reasons I love the others too? Yes of course! They’re each unique and magical in their own right!
And do I have a few that I wouldn’t recommend? Yep, for sure! But you’ll have to check in with me personally for that list! 😉
