When you visit Walt Disney World, you have the option of staying on or off property. There are different hotel options on property in various price ranges – but there are also some very different themes. In addition to price and location, you’ll want to consider the various themes. Here are some of the best themes at Walt Disney World resort hotels.
I have been on complimentary press trips to Walt Disney World, but all opinions are mine. This post contains affiliate links and purchase through one of these links may result in a commission paid to us at no additional cost to you.
Disney’s Art of Animation
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is across the bridge from the Pop Century Resort (on the Skyliner). This highly themed resort offers several distinct areas, including Finding Nemo, Cars, the Lion King, and The Little Mermaid. The Little Mermaid rooms are standard rooms similar to the other value resorts, while the other three areas have family suites. These suites have two separate rooms and can sleep up to six. The living space includes a pull-out sofa and a dining room table that turns into a bed.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
One of my favorite resorts at Walt Disney World is the Animal Kingdom Lodge. If your kids love animals, you may consider staying there. While savanna-view rooms are offered (and are a great idea if it’s within your budget), plenty of viewing areas are scattered throughout the resort. The resort has two separate sections – Jambo House is the original area, and Kidani Village is the new area, especially for the Disney Vacation Club. There is no boat or monorail access from this resort – you must take the buses to all theme parks.
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
The Polynesian is my favorite kid-friendly monorail resort because we love the restaurants and the theme. Even if you haven’t visited Hawaii or the other Polynesian islands, you’ll appreciate the theme, which spans from the resort buildings to the elaborate pool areas. It’s also a very convenient resort located on the monorail loop.
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
I love Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. It’s located near the Magic Kingdom resort area and feels like a completely different place. It’s modeled after the national park lodges of the Pacific Northwest and is rustic and quaint. The resort recently added the new Copper Creek Villas and Cabins, which are luxurious and beautiful.
Disney’s Beach Club
Thanks to its location near EPCOT and comfortable, casual theme, Disney’s Beach Club Resort is my #1 favorite resort at Walt Disney World. I always feel nostalgic and happy when I walk through those doors. Disney’s Beach Club (along with its sister resort, the Yacht Club) offers a fun waterpark area called Stormalong Bay. If you stay here, I recommend reserving time to spend at the pool.
Disney’s Boardwalk Inn
Disney’s Boardwalk Inn is a resort located right on the Disney Boardwalk. This can be such a fun place to stay because you’ll be right near the Boardwalk restaurants and activities. It’s just like an early 20th-century Boardwalk (like Coney Island) with carnival games and food kiosks. Even if you don’t stay at the Boardwalk Inn, you can still visit the Boardwalk area.
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
This beach-themed resort offers a large pirate-themed pool called the Fuentes del Morro Pool. There are also two waterslides and a 12-person jacuzzi. Five leisure pools are located throughout the property if you’d prefer a quieter swimming experience. I was so impressed with the amenities, activities, and location when I visited this resort. In addition, the Caribbean Beach Resort is located on the Skyliner, making it more convenient to get to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios.
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort
Port Orleans is two resorts in one. There are two sections, Riverside, which is themed after the countryside of Louisiana. Within that resort are two areas, Alligator Bayou and Magnolia Bend (which look like large mansions). The French Quarter side is smaller but more quaint. Guests can access the amenities at either part of the resort.
Disney’s Riviera Resort
This brand-new resort, inspired by Europe, opened in late 2019 and has been popular ever since. It is a Disney Vacation Club property, offering studios and 1, 2, and 3-bedroom suites. It’s located near the Caribbean Beach Resort and has Skyliner access. Disney’s Riviera Resort is a deluxe property, and feels like a high-end European resort.
Disney’s Pop Century Resort
My favorite value hotel is Disney’s Pop Century Resort. This fun celebration of pop culture includes buildings themed for each recent decade with bright colors. The whole resort has a larger-than-life and fun vibe that is perfect for families. The rooms at Disney’s Pop Century Resort are located in buildings themed after specific decades. It’s located on the Skyline, across the bridge from Disney’s Art of Animation.
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