How do I choose the BEST Disney World Resort for my family?
Have you been considering a vacation to the most magical place on earth? One of the first things you will have to do in your planning is decide where to stay. Although deciding where to stay may sound like a simple task but with more than 34 resorts on Disney property it can be a tad bit overwhelming. I'm here to help with some tips to help you narrow the best resort for YOUR family!
Picture: One of my favourite moderate resorts: Port Orleans French Quarter.
1. Budget.
This is often the main consideration that will affect where you decide to stay. Disney has 3 different resort categories to choose from; Value, Moderate and Deluxe. With resort prices ranging from around $175/night to over $700 there is something for (almost) every budget. But don't let this be the only consideration when you are trying to determine where to stay as there are many other factors you will want to consider before booking your stay.
2. Proximity to the Parks.
Consider how close you want to be to the magic. Staying onsite is my preferred & recommended way to do Disney but not all Disney resorts provide the same access to the parks. Some resorts are so close you can walk there (hello Deluxe Resorts!) and some could be a 15+ minute bus ride away. If you have little kiddos and are planning to take breaks back at your resort, then a resort closer to the parks may be ideal for you so you have easier access to your room. However if you plan on spending the entire day at the parks then this may not be a consideration for you.
3. Transportation Options.
One of the perks of staying on Disney property at a Disney resort is the FREE transportation throughout Disney World! BUT not all transportation options are created equal, so you will want to consider if a bus to all 4 parks is adequate for your needs or if you would like an alternative option such as the Skyliner, Monorail, Boat, or even a walking path. I typically recommend staying at a resort that has more than one way of getting to the parks, it offers some variety and can help at the end of the night having an alternate mode of transportation when there is a long line for the busses.
Photo: One of my favourite Deluxe resorts: The Boardwalk.
4. Room size & configuration.
While all 3 levels of the Disney resorts have different price points they also have different room sizes. And you guessed it you will pay more for larger rooms & suites. The value resorts will offer a standard hotel room size & amenities with more basic furnishings as well as exterior corridors. Moderates will be a bit larger with midrange furnishings. While Deluxe resort will offer more space, including 1 plus bedroom units, luxurious fixtures and furnishings and a balcony or patio.
Have a family of 5? Not to worry there are several Disney resorts that will accommodate you too!
5. Resort Amenities.
The last consideration to make when picking your resort is the amenities it has. Again like the room sizes Value resorts will offer more basic amenities; there will be a pool, and food court style restaurant. Moderate resorts will be a more elaborate pool and often the main pool will have a waterslide. They will also typically have a sit down dining option as well as the quick service. Finally Deluxe resorts will feel more luxurious. The pools are of the best on property and they will also have added amenities such as fitness centers, and multiple dining options.
Choosing the right Disney Resort is a unique decision for each family and will depend on your families needs and budget considerations. By weighing these outlined factors with your families preferences and needs you are sure to have a magical and unforgettable Disney vacation! So pack your bags and grab your mickey ears, you are one step closer to planning your families Disney Trip!
As always if you find this task of narrowing down your resort to be too overwhelming I'm here to help! I'll help match you to the best resort based on your families wish list so you know you are making the right choice for YOUR families specific needs. I also support throughout the entire process to ensure your Disney vacation is as stress free as possible so you can focus on what really matters... making those core memories with your family!
If you would like to learn more about working with me and my available services for a Disney vacation please check out my new client welcome handbook New Client Welcome Handbook.
If you would like to schedule a complimentary consultation call you can schedule a time in my calendar HERE.
Have a Magical Day!