I stayed at every single Disney World resort and ranked them from worst to best

Average room rate: $100 to $200

Level: Value

Comprised of three motel-style resorts themed to music, sports, and movies, the All-Star properties are Disney World's most budget-friendly option. 

But they're located out of the way from most of the theme parks, only offer one mode of transportation (buses), and only have one food court for dining. I think my dollar could go a lot further off Disney property.

If you end up staying here, I recommend All-Star Movies because of its recently renovated rooms.

Average room rate: $450 to $800

Level: Deluxe

Inspired by its namesake New York town, this Victorian-style resort embraces the equestrian theme throughout its sprawling property.

Its sheer size leads to a number of issues, like packed pools and crowded bus transportation to parks. Plus, the older property feels a bit dated, and there's no guarantee that you'll be housed in one of the newly remodeled rooms.

For a deluxe-level resort, it lacks any standout dining options, and it's a bit far from the parks. But it does come with the perk of being able to walk to Disney Springs.

Average room rate: $300 to $400

Level: Moderate

Disney's Port Orleans is made up of two adjoining resorts — Riverside and French Quarter — which embrace the charm of the Louisiana bayou and the liveliness of New Orleans.

Although there's beauty to be found on the cobblestone-laden grounds of the family-friendly resort, the moderate-level property is lacking in some key areas.

Given the Cajun and Creole influences, I feel like Disney missed the mark entirely with the themed dining. The bus-only transportation system to the parks also proves to be a major headache as the two resorts often share buses.

Average room rate: $300 t0 $400

Level: Moderate

Disney's Coronado Springs embraces Spanish and Mexican influences in its design, but it's not enough to make you forget that this is a functioning convention center.

Given its size, you could easily clock in a mile before ever setting foot in a theme park — especially if you're interested in walking over to the pool that features a replica 50-foot Mayan pyramid.

The saving grace is the newest addition, Gran Destino Tower, which carries a more upscale feel complete with a rooftop lounge and stunning views.

Average room rate: $300 to $400

Level: Moderate

Sandy beaches and vibrant colors may draw you to the impeccably themed Caribbean Beach Resort but be warned: The massive property consists of six island-themed villages, and you have to rely on an internal bus system to get around.

If you don't mind the size, you can relax at a number of the island-inspired dining options and pools, and you can take advantage of riding the Disney Skyliner to Epcot and Hollywood Studios.

If I am staying here, the pirate-themed rooms are an absolute must.

Average room rate: $600 to $800

Level: Deluxe

You can choose between beachside vibes or nautical sophistication at Disney's adjacent deluxe resorts, Yacht Club and Beach Club.

The two share most amenities, meaning the big sand-bottom pool — which has a popular slide going through a life-sized shipwreck — can get packed.

For the price, I find the atmosphere to be a bit too polished, and given the number of guests, on-site dining is always in great demand.

There's a walking path to the BoardWalk, Epcot, and Hollywood Studios, but I'm not sure the location can even justify the price.

Average room rate: $300 for standard rooms and $600 for family suites

Level: Value

At Disney's Art of Animation, immersive theming brings movies to life via large-scale depictions of your favorite Disney characters.

In addition to standard rooms, the property offers the largest number of themed family suites.

For a value price tag, it also packs quite a punch in the amenities department, as it's home to the largest pool in Disney World.

The dining options are limited to a basic food court, but it's located next to a Skyliner station that can quickly whisk you to the Boardwalk, Epcot, and Hollywood Studios.

Average room rate: $650 to $800

Level: Deluxe

Disney's Contemporary Resort is perhaps the most recognizable on the property thanks to its unique A-frame shape, which allows the monorail to soar right through the lobby.

It's a family favorite for those who spend the bulk of their time at Magic Kingdom, which is just a short walk away.

The overall look could use a refresh. There are no distinct design elements aside from a 90-foot mural by Disney legend Mary Blair, the visionary behind classic attractions like It's a Small World.

Among smaller quick-service locations and lounges, the Contemporary is home to Chef Mickey's character-dining experience, the new Steakhouse 71 restaurant and lounge, and California Grill — a rooftop restaurant known for its standout sushi and floor-to-ceiling views of Magic Kingdom's fireworks.

Average room rate: $500 to $700

Level: Deluxe

Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge is the most unique resort with safari-lodge vibes and its own savanna home to over 200 animals.

The inspiration can be found throughout the resort through its collection of African art.

It's worth a visit for some of Disney World's most celebrated dining locations as well as the resort-exclusive zebra domes — a fan-favorite dessert filled with white chocolate and mousse.

Serviced only by the bus system, the location is the resort's only negative if you're looking to explore parks beyond Animal Kingdom.

Average room rate: $900 to $1,000

Level: Deluxe

Setting the scene with a live pianist in the lobby, the theme and mood of the Grand Floridian exude utter class.

It's ideal for families with young kids as it provides easy access to Magic Kingdom via the monorail, boats, or a walking path.

I enjoy the libations at the "Beauty and the Beast"-themed cocktail bar (Enchanted Rose) and the refined dinner at its newly revamped "Mary Poppins Returns"-themed restaurant (Cítricos).

I love visiting the resort during the holidays because of the impressive Christmas display, including a life-size gingerbread house and stunning tree.

Average room rate: $700 to $900

Level: Deluxe

Disney's BoardWalk Inn is a resort and an entertainment destination outfitted with bus and boat service, the Skyliner, and a walking path.

It's home to several worthy dining options, and you can make an entire evening out of exploring the turn-of-the-century Atlantic City-inspired boardwalk, with its carnival games, snack stands, and dance hall.

It's close to Epcot and Hollywood Studios, and it's also home to a popular carousel-themed pool, a magician-inspired lounge, and an Italian restaurant with house-made pasta.

If you can't swing the steep price, you can just make time to walk the boardwalk during your visit.

Average room rate: $500 to $700

Level: Deluxe

You'll swear there's a warm ocean breeze blowing your way in landlocked Orlando when you visit the homey Old Key West Resort.

Well-executed theming, tranquil walking paths, and a standout pool help this resort stand out.

At Olivia's Cafe, you'll even spy a photo wall of families who return to stay year after year. I'm also a fan of the laid-back vibes at Gurgling Suitcase Libations, which serves the resort's signature Turtle Krawl cocktail.

But for being a deluxe resort, it lacks a proper bar and restaurant.

Average room rate: $200 to $300

Level: Value

What Disney's Pop Century Resort lacks in dining options it makes up for in location, pricing, and theming.

The resort features larger-than-life statues depicting pop-culture icons of the 1950s to 1990s all around, and its newly remodeled rooms have quickly become a favorite of mine. And I can never pass up the resort exclusive tie-dye cheesecake available in the food court.

The nearby Skyliner station makes traveling to Epcot and Hollywood Studios a breeze. Plus, there are multiple pools.

There's a ton of value to be found here considering it's a budget property. 

Average room rate: $600 to $700

Level: Moderate

The Cabins at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort is where camping meets modern amenities.

The internal bus system can be complicated, but there's no need to deal with it when you can cruise around on your own private golf cart.

Special touches, like campfire sing-a-longs and movies under the stars make this a favorite. This is also the home of Tri-Circle-D Ranch which allows guests to meet the horses who appear with characters around the theme parks.

Interesting on-site dining options, like one of the longest-running dinner shows, The Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue, make this the total package.

Average room rate: $700 to $900

Level: Deluxe

Disney World's newest resort is an opulent Mediterranean-themed property inspired by Walt Disney's own travels around Europe.

The Riviera Resort offers a prime location with quick access to Hollywood Studios and Epcot aboard the Skyliner and the other parks via buses.

It has some of the best dining at Disney World. I love savoring casual bites from the poolside Bar Riva and the can't-miss rooftop views from Topolino's Terrace Flavors of the Riviera.

Le Petit Café, inspired by "The Aristocats," also serves the best coffee on the property in a cozy lounge adorned with images from Walt's travels.

Average room rate: $300 to $400

Level: Deluxe

Although Marriott's Swan & Dolphin Resorts are not operated by Disney, they've been official on-property resorts since opening in 1990.

Ideally located between Epcot and Hollywood Studios, the two resorts are adjoined by an incredible tropical oasis, complete with a 3-acre grotto pool, slide, and lively pool bar.

On-site dining is plentiful, including celebrity ventures from Todd English, chain spots like Shula's Steakhouse and Trattoria Il Mulino, and even a karaoke bar.

I consider this an absolute steal as it's priced similarly to moderate-level resorts while offering the level of amenities and services expected from a deluxe. 

Average room rate: $600 to $800

Level: Deluxe

Disney's Wilderness Lodge is an awe-inducing property modeled after the US' national-park lodges. The result is Walt Disney World theming at its best, with an incredibly spacious main lobby complete with an 80-foot, Grand Canyon-inspired stone fireplace.

The exterior is equally impressive featuring grand mountains, waterfalls, and one of the best pools in Disney World.

It has several sought-after dining options. Territory Lounge is a perfect way to cozy up after a long park day thanks to its rustic vibes and extensive list of Pacific Northwest wines.

Average room rate: $800 to $1,000

Level: Deluxe

I reach peak vacation mode every time I set foot in Disney's Polynesian Village Resort.

Dating back to Disney World's opening in 1971, the resort exudes paradise through tropical-inspired décor, ambiance, and dining.

In addition to newly renovated rooms, you also have a vast number of transportation options, including the monorail, boats, walking paths, and buses.

I love sipping on a tropical cocktail from Trader Sam's Grog Grotto on the sandy beaches of the Seven Seas Lagoon while watching Magic Kingdom's fireworks just across the water.

You'll also find some cult-favorite Disney foods, like Dole Whip and Tonga Toast.

Note: These rates were accurate at the time of publication but are subject to change.

This story was originally published in June 2022 and most recently updated on September 5, 2024.