7 Reasons Why You SHOULDN'T Stay in a Disney World Deluxe Hotel This Year

Planning a Disney World trip can be one of the most exciting (and expensive) experiences you’ll ever have.

With so many choices, from resorts to dining and other experiences, deciding where to stay can feel overwhelming. While Deluxe hotels might seem like the ultimate way to elevate your trip, we’re here to say they may not be worth it, especially in 2025.

Here’s why splurging on a Deluxe Disney hotel this year might not be the magical decision you’re hoping for. Let’s dive in!

Deluxe Costs, Standard Experiences

For starters, the price tag for Deluxe hotels is no joke. Sure, you get larger rooms, premium views, and upgraded amenities, but unless you’re planning to spend a significant chunk of your vacation relaxing at the hotel, those extra perks might not be worth it.

The reality is that the theme park experience itself is the same for everyone, regardless of where you’re staying. Also, for the cost of a Deluxe stay, you could potentially extend your trip or splurge on unique experiences like VIP tours or dining at signature restaurants. Speaking of which…

You Don’t Need to Stay at a Deluxe Hotel to Enjoy Its Perks

Many of Disney’s most beloved experiences at Deluxe resorts, like dining at the California Grill or exploring the beautifully themed grounds of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, are open to anyone. That means you can enjoy these perks without paying for a room there.

So, if you fancy a signature dinner, a stroll along the BoardWalk, or an afternoon exploring Wilderness Lodge, you can do it all while staying somewhere more budget-friendly.

Transportation Isn’t Always Magical

Now, one of the major draws of Disney’s Deluxe hotels is their proximity to the parks and premium transportation options, but here’s the kicker: not all Deluxe resorts have these benefits.

For example, resorts like Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and Animal Kingdom Lodge don’t offer Skyliner or Monorail access, and no hotel offers this kind of transportation to all parts of Disney World — you’ll still have to take Disney buses often.

Skyliner station at Art of Animation and Pop Century

Meanwhile, Moderate and Value resorts like Disney’s Pop Century and Art of Animation have Skyliner access, giving you faster and more convenient travel to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios without the hefty Deluxe price tag.

Deluxe Alternatives That Won’t Break the Bank

Okay, but let’s say you’re dead set on having a Deluxe experience without the Deluxe price tag. In that case, you’ll want to consider options like the Swan and Dolphin hotels.

These resorts are located on Disney property, within walking distance to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios, and offer many of the same Deluxe-level perks – without the Disney price markup.

Plus, they’re part of the Marriott Bonvoy program, so you can even use points to save money. Why pay more when you don’t have to?

Room Refurbishments

Here’s a big one for 2025: Many Deluxe resorts are undergoing major refurbishments, which could seriously impact your stay. From construction noise to closed amenities, it might not feel like the luxurious experience you’re paying for.

Here’s a quick rundown of some notable disruptions:

- Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort is undergoing room refurbishments through September 2025. Expect noise, detours, and a less-than-relaxing atmosphere.
- Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, even though the work on the Island Tower has been completed, construction will continue at the resort through 2026.
- Wilderness Lodge is undergoing exterior refurbishments, and construction on the Copper Creek Villas & Cabins will continue into late 2025.

If peace and quiet are what you’re after, staying at these hotels might not be your best bet.

Pool Closures

We all know that the Deluxe resorts are known for their incredible pools, but several of them will have major pool closures or maintenance in 2025. For instance:

- Stormalong Bay at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts, arguably Disney’s most famous pool, will undergo maintenance through June 2025. While other pools will remain open, this is a big letdown for anyone staying here just for the pool experience.
- Other resorts, like Wilderness Lodge and Polynesian Village, may have construction-related disruptions near their pool areas as well.

When you’re paying Deluxe prices, these kinds of closures can feel like a real disappointment.

There Are Better Ways to Spend Your Budget

As we’ve been saying, Disney vacations aren’t cheap, and every dollar counts. By skipping the Deluxe hotel, you can allocate your budget to other parts of your trip, like:

- Splurging on park tickets for special events like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party or Jollywood Nights.
- Enjoying unique dining experiences, like a character breakfast or even a meal at Victoria & Albert’s.
- Adding a few extra days to your trip or upgrading to Park Hopper Plus tickets.

Disney Is About the Parks, Not the Hotels

At the end of the day, the real magic of Disney World lies in the parks, not the hotels. While Deluxe resorts are beautiful and offer some unique perks, they’re not essential for an unforgettable trip. Whether you’re staying at a Value resort or off-property, you’ll still have access to the same attractions, entertainment, and more that make Disney World so special.