Imagine waking up in a magical world where dreams come true and adventure awaits everywhere. That’s the experience you can have when you stay at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel. The moment you step onto the property, you are transported to a world of excitement, wonder, and endless fun. In this article, we’ll cover Disney’s hotel history, what types of hotels you can expect to find, and some of the perks of staying at an on-site hotel. Finally, we’ll cover some tips for booking a Disney hotel!
History of Walt Disney World Resort Hotels
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The history of Walt Disney World Resort hotels dates back to the opening of the Magic Kingdom theme park in 1971. As the park gained popularity, the demand for places to stay on the property grew. The first on-site hotel, Disney’s Contemporary Resort, opened in 1971 and featured a modern design and monorail running through its atrium. Over the years, more hotels were added, such as Disney’s Polynesian Village and Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground, each offering guests a unique theme and experience.
The 1980s brought expansion to the resort with the addition of Epcot Center, prompting the opening of hotels like Disney’s Yacht Club Resort and Disney’s Beach Club Resort near the new park. The 1990s saw continued growth with the introduction of Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and Disney’s BoardWalk Inn, adding to the variety of accommodations available on the property.
Today, Walt Disney World Resort boasts over 25 unique hotels ranging from value to deluxe accommodations, providing guests with a wide range of options to suit their preferences and budget. The resort hotels continue to evolve and expand, offering new experiences and amenities for guests to enjoy.
Types of Disney Resort Hotels & Accommodations
Deluxe Resort Hotels & Villas: Walt Disney World Swan Reserve & Polynesian Village Resort
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Deluxe Resort Hotels & Villas offer the ultimate luxury experience for guests visiting Walt Disney World. The Walt Disney World Swan Reserve is a stunning property that combines modern elegance with convenient access to all the parks’ magic. Meanwhile, the Polynesian Village Resort transports guests to a tropical paradise with its beautiful scenery and relaxing atmosphere. Whether you prefer a sleek modern design or a more traditional island feel, these Disney deluxe villas and hotels provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable Disney vacation.
Moderate Resorts: Caribbean Beach Resort & Port Orleans
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Disney Moderate Resorts are popular for families seeking a balance between comfort and affordability. The Caribbean Beach Resort is a vibrant tropical-themed resort with colorful rooms and a lively atmosphere. On the other hand, Port Orleans Resort offers a more serene and relaxing experience with its charming Southern hospitality vibes. Both resorts provide guests with spacious rooms, numerous dining choices, and transportation to and from the parks, making them an excellent choice for a magical Disney vacation.
Value Resorts: Pop Century Resort & Art of Animation Resort
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Disney Value Resorts offers affordable places to stay for families and travelers looking to experience the magic of Disney without breaking the bank. Pop Century Resort and Art of Animation Resort are popular options in this category. Both resorts boast colorful and vibrant themes, spacious rooms, and fun amenities for guests of all ages. Whether exploring the larger-than-life icons of past decades at Pop Century or immersing yourself in the animated worlds of Disney movies at Art of Animation, these value resorts provide a comfortable and budget-friendly stay for your Disney vacation.
Disney Springs Resorts (Off-site)
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While Disney Spring Resorts are not considered official Disney-owned and operated on-site resorts, they are nearby in the Disney Springs area. They are a popular place to stay among families. They offer similar benefits, such as complimentary transportation throughout the resort and early access to dining reservations. Guests can stay at one of the luxurious hotels or enjoy a day at the theme parks before returning to the resort for a relaxing evening. With beautiful scenery and various activities, Disney Springs Resort offers a magical experience that will create lasting memories for guests of all backgrounds.
Benefits of Staying at a Disney Resort Hotel
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Staying at a Disney resort hotel has many benefits that can enhance your vacation experience. It may be worth it to take advantage of these perks.
- Guests staying at a Disney resort hotel can access Extra Magic Hours, which allows them to enter the theme parks early or stay late on select days. This can help guests avoid crowds and maximize their time in the parks.
- Disney resort hotels offer complimentary transportation to and from the parks and other resort areas like Disney Springs. This can save guests time and hassle when navigating the massive property.
- Guests staying at a Disney resort hotel can use Disney’s Magical Express service, which provides complimentary transportation to and from the airport. This eliminates the need for guests to rent a car or worry about transportation to and from the airport, making their trip even more convenient and stress-free.
These perks may be worth staying at an on-site resort. Not having to consider transportation to and from the park or airport is huge. Plus, early entry to the parks is always a bonus!
Tips for Booking a Disney World Resort Hotel
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When booking a Disney World resort hotel, there are a few tips to keep in mind to ensure a smooth experience.
- Book as early as possible; Disney World hotels can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
- Staying on-site at a Disney World resort provides convenient park access and often includes perks such as early park entry.
- Explore all the different Disney World resort options, as each offers a unique theme and amenities.
- Don’t forget to check for any promotions or discounts when booking your stay, as this can help you save money on your accommodations.
If this is your first trip to Disney, it may feel intimidating but don’t fret. You’ll be an expert in no time!
FAQs: Walt Disney World Resort Hotels
What are the different accommodations available at Disney World Hotels?
You can choose from various accommodations, including Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts, Moderate Resorts, and Value Resorts. Each offers different amenities and pricing options.
How can I make reservations for a Disney Resort area hotel?
You can make reservations online through the official Disney website, via phone, or through a travel agent specializing in Disney vacations.
Are there any benefits to staying at a Disney World Hotel?
Yes, guests staying at a Disney resort enjoy benefits such as early access to FastPass+ reservations, transportation to and from the parks, Extra Magic Hours, and complimentary MagicBands.
Can I use Disney transportation to get around the resorts?
Yes, each resort offers complimentary transportation to all Disney parks, water parks, and Disney Springs via buses, boats, and the Monorail.
Are there dining options available at Disney Resorts?
Yes, each hotel offers a variety of dining options ranging from quick-service restaurants to signature dining experiences. Some hotels also offer character dining experiences.
What is the best time of year to visit Disney World Hotels?
The best time to visit depends on your preferences. Peak times include holidays and school breaks, while quieter times are typically in the fall and early spring.
Do Disney Hotels offer childcare services?
Many hotels offer childcare services through the Kids’ Clubs or in-room babysitting arrangements. Reservations are recommended.
Conclusion
As you are vacation planning, keep in mind that hotel guests on-site can also access exclusive experiences, like character breakfasts, spa treatments, and special events. There is practically a resort hotel to match any taste and offer families peace of mind. So why wait? Staying at a Disney World Resort Hotel with Mickey and friends is the perfect Disney experience for memory-making!
Morgan French is a wife, mom of two, writer & editor. After traveling for 3 years with her family, she now lives back in her hometown of Dayton, OH. She makes frequent stops for coffee, enjoys the outdoors, and loves board games.
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