This part of the Planning Your Vacation series will be all about helping you choose the Resort that is perfect for you and your party! This is similar to my Which Resort is Best For You series, so if you don’t see something that you need on this post, make sure to check out my series.
-Looking at Accommodations
Each Resort has different accommodations and amenities that may determine if you would want to stay there. All of the Resorts have at least one pool, so if you want to be able to swim on your vacation, then don’t worry. If you want to see what accommodations that your Resort offers, then look at Disney World’s website to see the information about your Resort. Some Resorts have water slides, tennis courts, playgrounds and more. The Riviera even has a bocce ball court! Each Resort has unique theming and what is available varies based on level or theme.
-Looking at Price
Disney Resorts can be expensive, based on where you are planning to stay. The Deluxe Resorts may have the premium accommodations, but the rooms can be over 1,000$ a night! The Value Resorts can be cheaper, but be a little childish and less fancy. But their room rates can be much cheaper. If you are planning on having the most expensive place to stay, then look at the Grand Floridian. But, if you want to save money for snacks, then check out the All Star Resorts or Art of Animation and Pop Century. Make sure to get the Resort that works for you. Little known fact, the Swan and Dolphin is known to be a Deluxe Resort, but has rates that are around the Moderate area. Take a look at that, if you want.
-Looking at the Size
The Disney Resorts vary in size, based on what accommodations and other things that are available. If you want an idea of how large the Resort you are looking at is, then look up on the internet a picture of the Resort map. The map will not only show you the size, but also where all of the accommodations are and how far apart they are. Some of the Resorts that are more speak out would include Art of Animation, Pop Century, Animal Kingdom Lodge, Polynesian Village, all of the Deluxe Villa Resorts, and more. A vast majority of the Resorts will require a little bit of walking. Some of the Resorts that are a little more close include the Contemporary, Swan and Dolphin, Boardwalk Inn, Yacht and Beach, and the Riviera. But, even though they are closer, you will have to walk a little to the transportations stops. And, most Resorts that are spread out require you to walk outside from where your room is, so make sure the weather looks nice, or you will be battling the wind and rain to get to your room.
-On Property or Outside?
Disney is known for their incredible Resorts that have characters, amazing pools, and awesome dining. But, some of the more luxury Resorts are expensive! There are a few Resorts that are owned by 3rd party companies that are near Disney Springs. Some include Hilton, Best Western, and Marriott. They are known to be cheaper, but they don’t have Disney transportation, Magical Express, Magic Hours, or Disney Dining Plan. But if you don’t mind the lack of theming or Disney add-ons, then maybe choose an outside hotel! But if you really want the free transportation, DDP, and other things then chose a Disney-owned Resort.
-Looking at Transportation Options
Transportation can determine how fast or slow you will be able to get to each park. Some Resorts have access to different transportation options for each park. At Resorts like the Swan and Dolphin, Yacht and Beach Club, and the Boardwalk have access to the Friendship boats for Epcot and Hollywood Studios, and have the busses for Disney Springs, Magic Kingdom, and Animal Kingdom. The bus is famously known to be a slow experience. The bus also requires that you have to fold your stroller, and it’s just not convenient. But transportation like a boat or the Monorail will allow you to be able to get on without folding your stroller. So look at the transportation options and look at which parks you want to visit the most. Plus, some of the Magic Kingdom or Epcot area Resorts are walking distance to some of the parks.
-Making Sure The Location is Good For You
The location is going to determine which transportation options that you have, and how long it will take to get to each park. If you are planning on going to Magic Kingdom more, then look at Resorts like The Contemporary, Wilderness Lodge, and Grand Floridian. If you are more interested in Epcot, then look at the Boardwalk Inn, Swan and Dolphin, or Yacht and Beach Club. Take a look at the Resort Area to see which will be more convenient for you.
-Dining Options at the Resort
One thing, for foodies at least, that can make or break your Resort decision. Most Value Resorts have just one food court, and that's it. The Moderate level will have at least 2 different options. But, the Deluxe Resorts are known for their dining! The Grand Floridian is home to Victoria and Alberts, which is a very highly ranked dining destination, and it is a must try. The Contemporary is known for Chef Mickeys, and Polynesian Village has a whole variety of incredible dining. So make sure that you put into account the dining!
Hopefully this will help you plan your Resort stay, and you learned a little something! Our next episode will be about what you should do when you go to the parks!