If you’re planning a trip to Disney World, one of the biggest decisions you’ll have to make is where you’re going to stay. After all, your accommodations can have a significant impact on your trip as a whole. Staying at one of the many hotels and resorts on Disney property can be a great way to make your trip extra magical, but it can be hard to decide which one to choose! Each has its own charm, amenities, and ambiance, so you’ll want to do some research and see what suits your family the best.
If you’re gearing up for a Disney trip but aren’t quite sure where to stay, here are a few options that might be right for your family:
The Animal Kingdom Lodge.
As one of Disney World’s Deluxe properties, you can expect service and comfort above the rest if you choose to stay at this spectacular resort. Slip away for a relaxing experience at the onsite spa, or let the kids burn off their extra energy once you’ve returned from the parks in the zero-entry pool.
This one’s right for you if:
- You’re looking for the perfect excuse to splurge. Short of taking an African safari, you won’t find an experience like this anywhere else so it may be worth the price tag.
- You’ve always dreamed of waking up and watching giraffes graze outside your window.
- You’re a family of adventurous eaters, excited to dig into African cuisine you’ll only find here.
The Art of Animation Resort.
And as one of the Value hotels, it’s a great way to take advantage of lots of the perks that come with staying on Disney property, like free buses from the Orlando International Airport and into the parks each day, without blowing your budget.
This one’s right for your family if:
- You want to take advantage of the hotel’s Family Suites, themed accommodations that include kitchenettes and multiple bathrooms for convenience.
- Your family loves to swim; the Big Blue Pool at the Art of Animation is the biggest you’ll find at any Disney resort.
- You want to bring your pup along. This resort is dog-friendly!
The Wilderness Lodge.
This rustic hotel is a great place for your family to kick back and relax after a long day at Magic Kingdom. Filled with crackling fireplaces, cozy rocking chairs, and wooden details everywhere, it’s the perfect option if your family loves the great outdoors. Head outside if the weather’s nice and catch a movie at the nearby beach.
This one’s right for your family if:
- You prefer the privacy offered by a cabin over a hotel room.
- You love the idea of spending evenings eating s’mores by a campfire.
- Your family loves to hunt for Hidden Mickeys; the Lodge is filled with them!
Contemporary Resort.
The Contemporary Resort is a one-of-a-kind hotel experience, and it’s one your family is sure to love. The monorail runs straight through the center of the hotel, whisking you off to the Disney parks without needing to wait for a bus, and when you’re back for the evening, you’ll find everything from swimming pools to world-class restaurants to enjoy.
Consider staying at the Contemporary if:
- Convenience and ease of access to the parks are top priorities.
- You love the idea of staying on the water; the Contemporary offers excellent views of both Bay Lake and the Seven Seas Lagoon.
- You want to eat at Chef Mickey’s, which offers one of the best character dining experiences at Disney World.
Your accommodations can indeed make or break your Disney vacation experience – choose carefully! Stay at one of the properties I’ve shared here, or do your own research and see what other hotels and resorts you can find at Disney World.
