If you’re looking for somewhere to stay on your Disney World trip, there are dozens of on-site options!
And even if you’re on a tight budget, you’re not out of luck! Disney has several value resorts, plus a plethora of chain hotels in the Disney Springs area of the resort. But what’s the difference between the two? Today, we’re comparing the two categories to help you decide where to stay!
Disney Value Resorts
- All-Star Movies Resort: starting at $108 a night
- Art of Animation Resort: starting at $173 a night
- Pop Century Resort: starting at $149 a night
There are two other value resorts at Walt Disney World: All-Star Music and All-Star Sports, but neither of those options has reopened since the pandemic. As far as Disney-owned Resorts go, these are the cheapest choices you can get, starting at around $100 a night. Prices can vary greatly depending on the time of year and the room category (Art of Animation Resort has character suites that are more expensive).
At one of these hotels, you’ll get all the perks that on-site Disney Resort guests receive, with extra days to book your dining, Early Theme Park Entry (when that perk begins), and free transportation to and from the parks. While the All-Star Resorts only have bus transportation, Pop Century and Art of Animation share a Skyliner station with direct access to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios.
And besides all that, you’ll get the top-notch Disney-quality service that guests have grown to love over the years. Some people choose Disney Resorts simply for that fact alone!
More Great Accommodations
In the “More Great Accommodations” section of the Disney World website, you’ll find a long list of hotels that are located within Disney property lines, but are owned by other companies like Hilton, Marriot, and Holiday Inn. Here are some of the options available:
- Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista: starting at $89 a night
- B Resort & Spa Lake Buena Vista: starting at $99 a night
- Holiday Inn Orlando: starting at $84.55 a night
- Wyndham Lake Buena Vista: starting at $104 a night
- DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Orlando: starting at $100 a night (for non-rewards members)
- Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista: starting at $134 a night (for non-rewards members)
Do you know what’s great about these hotels? They offer many of the same perks that Disney Resorts do, they offer transportation to and from the parks, AND they’re often a little bit cheaper than a value resort. Especially if you’re a rewards member of these companies, you may be able to score a really great deal!
If you’re okay without the Disney theme, then you may want to look into staying at one of these hotels. They’re a great way to stay on the property without paying a premium!
Extra Costs to Note
However, while the non-Disney hotels may seem much cheaper, it’s important. to note that they typically have per-night resort fees that you’ll have to pay. These fees range anywhere from $23-$35 a night, depending on which hotel you choose. Make sure to factor this charge into your budget!
No matter where you’re staying, you’ll be paying a parking fee if you bring your own car. At Disney’s Value Resorts, the fee is $15 per night. The good news is that you will then receive free parking at any of the theme parks during your stay. At the Disney Springs area hotels, the price ranges from $20-$23 per day/night (plus tax), and you’ll have to pay for parking at the parks.
So, factoring in all these costs and benefits…which should you choose?
Comparison
If you’re looking for Disney theming and a Disney experience, it may be worth it for your family to pay the extra cost of a Disney Resort. You’ll be closer to the parks and you’ll feel more like you’re in the “Disney bubble.” It’ll truly complete your WDW vacation experience!
However, if you’re budget-conscious and you’re looking to save as much as possible, then you may want to consider a Disney Springs area hotel. While they may not be quite as convenient, you may be able to save a significant amount of money — money that you can set aside or use for other in-park experiences. Some of these hotels are also more “fancy” than Disney’s Value Resorts, so you might have more space in your room or better amenities/restaurants.
No matter which you choose, you can still have a spectacular Disney World vacation. If you’re looking for more information on places to stay during your trip, stay tuned to AllEars for all the updates!
Click Here to See Our Ranking of Disney Resorts by Transportation!
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You should mention the large number of privately owned condos near Disney property. There are many 2 or 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom condos with full kitchens that can be had for $100 a night, roughly the same price as a room in the All-Star resort but 4 times larger!