Best Disney Resorts for Kids: Top Picks for a Fun-Filled Family Vacation
Looking for the perfect Disney resort for your family vacation can be overwhelming. With so many options to choose from, it can be challenging to determine which resort is the best fit for your family. Fortunately, we've done the research for you and compiled a list of the best Disney resorts for kids.
Understanding Disney resorts is essential when choosing the perfect resort for your family. Disney resorts are located on Disney property and offer a wide range of amenities, including transportation to and from the parks, character dining experiences, and themed pools. Each resort has a unique theme and caters to different age groups, making it essential to choose a resort that fits your family's needs.
Top Disney resorts for kids include Disney's Art of Animation Resort, Disney's Beach Club Resort, and Disney's Wilderness Lodge. These resorts offer a variety of amenities that cater specifically to children, including themed pools, character dining experiences, and kid-friendly activities. Choosing the right resort for your family can make all the difference in creating a magical Disney experience for your children.
Key Takeaways
Understanding Disney resorts is crucial when choosing the perfect resort for your family.
Top Disney resorts for kids include Disney's Art of Animation Resort, Disney's Beach Club Resort, and Disney's Wilderness Lodge.
Choosing the right resort for your family can make all the difference in creating a magical Disney experience for your children.
Understanding Disney Resorts
If you're planning a trip to Disney World with your kids, one of the most important decisions you'll make is choosing the right resort. With so many Disney resorts to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which one will be the best fit for your family. In this section, we'll give you an overview of the different types of Disney resorts and what to expect from each one.
Types of Disney Resorts
Disney World offers a variety of resort options, ranging from value resorts to deluxe resorts. Here's a breakdown of the different types of Disney resorts:
Value Resorts: These resorts are the most affordable option and are perfect for families on a budget. They offer basic amenities and have a fun, colorful theme.
Moderate Resorts: These resorts offer more amenities than value resorts and are a good choice for families who want a little more luxury without breaking the bank.
Deluxe Resorts: These resorts offer the most amenities and are the most expensive option. They are ideal for families who want a truly luxurious experience.
Popular Disney Resorts for Kids
Here are some of the most popular Disney resorts for kids:
Disney's Art of Animation Resort: This resort is perfect for families who love Disney movies. It features themed rooms based on popular movies like The Little Mermaid and The Lion King.
Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort: This resort has a fun, tropical theme and features a pirate-themed pool that kids will love.
Disney's Beach Club Resort: This resort has a beach theme and is located within walking distance of Epcot. It features a fun pool with a sandy bottom and a lazy river.
Disney's Polynesian Village Resort: This resort has a Hawaiian theme and features a fun pool with a volcano and a waterslide.
Disney's Pop Century Resort: This resort has a fun, retro theme and features giant icons from the 20th century, like a giant Rubik's Cube and a giant yo-yo.
Disney's Riviera Resort: This resort has a European theme and features a fun pool with a waterslide and a splash pad.
Choosing the Right Resort for Your Family
When choosing a Disney resort for your family, it's important to consider your budget, your family's interests, and your proximity to the parks. If you have young kids, you may want to choose a resort with a fun pool or a theme that they will love. If you're on a budget, a value resort may be the best option. And if you want a truly luxurious experience, a deluxe resort may be the way to go.
No matter which Disney resort you choose, you're sure to have a magical experience with your family.
Top Disney Resorts for Kids
If you're planning a family vacation to Disney World, choosing the right resort can make all the difference. With so many Disney resorts to choose from, it can be overwhelming. But fear not, we've narrowed down the top Disney resorts for kids to make your decision easier.
Polynesian Village Resort
The Polynesian Village Resort is a tropical paradise that will transport you to the South Pacific. Kids will love the Lava Pool, complete with a 142-foot-long waterslide and a volcano that spews water. The resort also offers a variety of activities, including hula dancing, lei-making, and a nightly torch lighting ceremony. And let's not forget about the character breakfast at 'Ohana, where you can meet Lilo and Stitch.
Beach Club Resort
The Beach Club Resort is the perfect choice for families who love the beach. The resort has a sandy bottom pool that feels like a beach, complete with a lazy river and a waterslide. Kids will also love the Shipwreck Pool, which is shaped like a shipwreck and has its own waterslide. The resort is conveniently located near Epcot and Hollywood Studios, making it easy to get to the parks.
Art of Animation
The Art of Animation Resort is a dream come true for kids who love Disney movies. The resort is themed around popular Disney movies, including Finding Nemo, The Lion King, and Cars. Kids will love the Big Blue Pool, which is the largest pool at any Disney resort. The resort also offers fun activities, such as drawing classes and movie nights.
Animal Kingdom Lodge
The Animal Kingdom Lodge is perfect for kids who love animals. The resort is located near Disney's Animal Kingdom park and has its own savanna, where you can see animals such as giraffes, zebras, and gazelles. Kids will love the Uzima Pool, which has a waterslide and a separate kiddie pool. The resort also offers a variety of activities, including African drumming and storytelling around a campfire.
Pop Century
The Pop Century Resort is a great choice for families on a budget. The resort is themed around the pop culture of the 1950s to the 1990s, with larger-than-life icons such as Rubik's Cubes and yo-yos. Kids will love the Hippy Dippy Pool, which has flower-shaped water jets and a kiddie pool. The resort also offers fun activities, such as trivia contests and tie-dye t-shirt making.
These are the top Disney resorts for kids that we recommend. Each resort offers something unique and special for kids, whether it's a tropical paradise, a beach experience, a Disney movie-themed resort, an animal-filled savanna, or a budget-friendly option. Choose the one that best fits your family's needs and preferences.
Resort Theming and Characters
One of the most exciting aspects of staying at a Disney resort for kids is the theming and characters. Disney resorts are known for their immersive theming, which can transport you to a different world altogether. From pirate-themed rooms to Little Mermaid-themed sections, Disney has something for every child's imagination.
If your child is a fan of Disney's animated movies, they will love the Art of Animation resort. This resort has four themed sections, including Cars, Finding Nemo, The Lion King, and The Little Mermaid. Each section has larger-than-life character statues and murals that will make your child feel like they are in the middle of their favorite movie.
For fans of Pirates of the Caribbean, the Caribbean Beach Resort has pirate-themed rooms that will make your child feel like they are part of Captain Jack Sparrow's crew. The rooms have pirate ship beds and nautical decor that will make your child feel like they are on a real ship.
If your child has a favorite Disney character, you may want to consider staying at a resort that has a section dedicated to that character. For example, the Art of Animation resort has a section dedicated to The Little Mermaid, while the Pop Century resort has a section dedicated to Disney's classic characters.
In summary, Disney resorts offer a wide range of theming and character experiences that will delight any child's imagination. From larger-than-life character statues to pirate-themed rooms, Disney has something for every child.
Resort Amenities for Kids
When it comes to planning a family vacation to Disney, parents want to make sure their kids have a great time. Luckily, Disney resorts offer a variety of amenities that are sure to keep kids entertained and happy throughout their stay.
One of the most popular amenities for kids at Disney resorts is the pool. Most resorts have at least one pool, and many have multiple pools to choose from. Some resorts even have a lazy river or a feature pool with a unique theme, such as the Big Blue Pool at Disney's Art of Animation Resort.
In addition to swimming, many resorts offer a playground area for kids to run and play. This is a great way for kids to burn off some energy while parents relax nearby. Some resorts also offer outdoor movie screenings under the stars, which is a fun way for families to enjoy a movie together in a unique setting.
When it comes to dining, many Disney resorts offer kid-friendly options and character dining experiences. This is a great way for kids to meet their favorite Disney characters while enjoying a meal. Some resorts even offer in-room dining options, which can be a lifesaver for families with young children who need to eat at odd hours.
Overall, Disney resorts offer a variety of amenities that are sure to keep kids happy and entertained throughout their stay. From pools and playgrounds to movies under the stars and character dining experiences, there's something for every kid at Disney.
Dining Options at Disney Resorts
When it comes to dining options at Disney Resorts, there is something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a quick bite or a fancy sit-down meal, you will find it at one of the many restaurants available.
For a quick and easy meal, the food courts at the resorts are a great option. They offer a variety of food options, from pizza to sandwiches to salads. You can also find grab-and-go items like fruit, yogurt, and pastries. The food courts are perfect for families on the go who want to grab a bite to eat before heading out to the parks.
If you're looking for a sit-down meal, there are plenty of options available. Quick service restaurants like 1900 Park Fare and Topolino's Terrace offer delicious meals that are perfect for families with kids. And if you want to make mealtime even more magical, consider character dining at one of the many restaurants throughout the parks and resorts. Your kids will love meeting their favorite Disney characters while enjoying a delicious meal.
No matter where you choose to eat, be sure to make reservations in advance. Some of the more popular restaurants can book up quickly, especially during peak times like holidays and school breaks. And don't forget to check out the dining plans available, which can save you money on your meals.
Overall, dining at Disney Resorts is a fun and delicious experience for the whole family. With so many options available, you're sure to find something that everyone will enjoy.
Disney Resort Transportation
Getting around the Disney resorts can be a hassle, but luckily, Disney provides several transportation options to make your stay as comfortable and convenient as possible. Here are some of the transportation options available at Disney resorts:
Buses
Buses are the most common mode of transportation at Disney resorts. They run regularly and can take you to any of the parks, as well as other resorts and Disney Springs. The buses are air-conditioned, and each bus stop has a digital display that shows the estimated arrival time of the next bus.
Monorail
The Monorail is a classic Disney transportation option that runs on a loop around the Magic Kingdom area resorts. It's a fun and convenient way to get to the Magic Kingdom, as well as other resorts like Disney's Contemporary Resort, Disney's Polynesian Village Resort, and Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.
Disney Skyliner
The Disney Skyliner is a new transportation option that opened in 2019. It's a gondola system that connects Disney's Hollywood Studios and Epcot to several Disney resorts, including Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney's Riviera Resort, and Disney's Art of Animation Resort. The Skyliner provides a unique and scenic way to travel around the resort.
Walking Distance
Some Disney resorts are within walking distance of certain parks or other resorts. For example, Disney's BoardWalk Inn is within walking distance of Epcot, and Disney's Beach Club Resort is within walking distance of Disney's Hollywood Studios. If you prefer to walk, make sure to choose a resort that is close to the parks you plan to visit.
Other Transportation Options
In addition to buses, the Monorail, and the Disney Skyliner, there are several other transportation options available at Disney resorts. These include boats, which can take you to Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and Disney Springs, as well as Minnie Vans, which are private vehicles that can take you anywhere on Disney property.
Overall, Disney provides a variety of transportation options to make your stay as convenient and enjoyable as possible. Whether you prefer to take the bus, ride the Monorail, or try out the new Disney Skyliner, there's a transportation option that will work for you.
Choosing a Resort Based on Budget
When planning a family vacation to Disney World, one of the most important factors to consider is your budget. Luckily, Disney offers a range of resorts to fit every budget, from value resorts to deluxe resorts. Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing a resort based on your budget:
Value Resorts
If you're looking to save money on your Disney World vacation, consider staying at a value resort. These resorts offer the most affordable rates, with prices starting at around $100 per night. While they may not have all the bells and whistles of the deluxe resorts, they still offer plenty of amenities to keep your family entertained, including themed pools, food courts, and arcade rooms.
Some of the best value resorts for families include the All-Star Resorts, which feature larger-than-life Disney characters and colorful decor, and Pop Century Resort, which celebrates the pop culture of the 20th century.
Moderate Resorts
If you're looking for a little more comfort and luxury, but still want to stay within a reasonable budget, consider a moderate resort. These resorts offer more spacious rooms, upgraded amenities, and more dining options than the value resorts, but are still more affordable than the deluxe resorts.
Some of the best moderate resorts for families include Caribbean Beach Resort, which features a pirate-themed pool and a lively marketplace, and Port Orleans Resort, which offers a charming New Orleans theme and boat transportation to Disney Springs.
Deluxe Resorts
If you're willing to splurge a bit on your Disney World vacation, consider staying at a deluxe resort. These resorts offer the most luxurious accommodations, with spacious rooms, fine dining, and top-notch amenities. They also tend to be located closer to the theme parks, making it easier to get around.
Some of the best deluxe resorts for families include the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, which offers Victorian elegance and a beachfront pool, and Animal Kingdom Lodge, which features stunning views of exotic animals and African-inspired decor.
No matter which resort you choose, there are plenty of options to fit your budget and make your Disney World vacation a magical experience for the whole family.
Resorts for Different Age Groups
When planning a trip to Disney World, it's important to consider the age of your children when choosing a resort. Different resorts cater to different age groups, so it's important to find one that will provide the most magical experience for your family.
For Families with Young Children
If you have young children, you'll want to choose a resort that is geared towards their age group. Resorts like Disney's Art of Animation Resort and Port Orleans Resort offer fun theming and activities that will keep your little ones entertained. The Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort is also a great choice for families with young children, as it offers a kids' club and a splash zone for toddlers.
For Families with Kids of All Ages
If you have kids of all ages, you'll want to choose a resort that offers something for everyone. The Beach Club Resort is a great option, as it offers a pool with a lazy river and a waterslide, as well as a kids' club and a game room. The Wilderness Lodge is also a great choice, as it offers a pool with a waterslide and a geyser, as well as a kids' club and a playground.
For Families with Teens
If you have teenagers, you'll want to choose a resort that offers activities and amenities that will appeal to them. The BoardWalk Inn is a great choice, as it offers a carnival-themed pool area, a game room, and access to the BoardWalk entertainment area. The Swan and Dolphin Resort is also a great choice, as it offers a beach volleyball court, a basketball court, and access to the nearby Disney BoardWalk.
For Families with Adults
If you're traveling with a group of adults, you'll want to choose a resort that offers amenities that will appeal to you. The Grand Floridian Resort and Spa is a great choice, as it offers a spa and fitness center, as well as access to the nearby golf course. The Polynesian Village Resort is also a great choice, as it offers a spa and fitness center, as well as access to the nearby golf course and marina.
No matter what age group your family falls into, there is a Disney resort that will provide the most magical experience for everyone.
Resorts Close to Disney Parks
When planning a trip to Disney World with kids, one of the most important factors to consider is the proximity of your resort to the parks. Staying at a resort close to the parks can save you time and energy, and make it easier to take midday breaks or return to your room for naps.
Here are some of the best resorts close to the Disney parks:
Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Located just a short monorail ride away from Magic Kingdom, Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is a luxurious option for families. The resort offers a variety of room types, including suites that can accommodate larger groups. With its Victorian-style architecture and elegant decor, the Grand Floridian is a great choice for families who want to add a touch of sophistication to their Disney vacation.
Disney's Polynesian Village Resort
Also located on the monorail line, Disney's Polynesian Village Resort offers a tropical escape just steps away from Magic Kingdom. The resort features a variety of dining options, including the popular 'Ohana restaurant, which serves up family-style meals with a Polynesian twist. Kids will love the resort's Lava Pool, which features a 142-foot-long water slide and a volcano-themed play area.
Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge
If your family is planning to spend a lot of time at Disney's Animal Kingdom, consider staying at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge. This resort is located just a short bus ride away from the park, and offers stunning views of the savanna, where you can see giraffes, zebras, and other animals roaming freely. The resort also features a variety of African-inspired dining options, as well as a pool with a waterslide and a kids' play area.
Disney's Beach Club Resort
Located within walking distance of Epcot and a short boat ride away from Disney's Hollywood Studios, Disney's Beach Club Resort is a great choice for families who want to be close to multiple parks. The resort features a sand-bottomed pool and a lazy river, as well as a variety of dining options, including the popular Beaches & Cream Soda Shop.
Disney's Contemporary Resort
Another monorail resort, Disney's Contemporary Resort is located just a short walk away from Magic Kingdom. The resort features a variety of room types, including suites with views of the park's nightly fireworks show. Kids will love the resort's feature pool, which offers a 17-foot-high water slide and a splash area for younger children.
No matter which resort you choose, staying close to the parks can make your Disney vacation with kids much more enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best Disney resorts for families with young children?
If you're traveling with young children, you'll want to consider a resort that is close to the parks and has amenities that cater to families. Some of the best Disney resorts for families with young children include Disney's Art of Animation Resort, Disney's Polynesian Village Resort, and Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.
Which Disney resort has the best pool for kids?
Disney's Art of Animation Resort has some of the best pools for kids. The Big Blue Pool is the largest resort pool at Walt Disney World Resort, and it features underwater speakers that play music from Finding Nemo. The Cozy Cone Pool is shaped like a cone, and it is inspired by the Cars movies. The Flippin' Fins Pool is inspired by The Little Mermaid, and it has a fun splash area for little ones.
What are the best Disney restaurants for kids?
Some of the best Disney restaurants for kids include Be Our Guest Restaurant, which is located in Magic Kingdom and features a Beauty and the Beast theme, and 'Ohana, which is located in Disney's Polynesian Village Resort and features a Hawaiian-inspired menu. Other great options include Chef Mickey's at Disney's Contemporary Resort and Hollywood & Vine at Disney's Hollywood Studios.
Which Disney resort is best for a first-time visit with kids?
Disney's Art of Animation Resort is a great option for a first-time visit with kids. It has family suites that can accommodate up to six people, and it is located close to Disney's Hollywood Studios and Epcot. It also has fun theming that kids will love, including sections inspired by Finding Nemo, The Lion King, and Cars.
Is Disney World worth it for families with little kids?
Yes, Disney World is definitely worth it for families with little kids. There are plenty of attractions and experiences that are designed specifically for young children, including character meet and greets, parades, and shows. Plus, the theming and attention to detail throughout the parks and resorts is sure to delight kids of all ages.
Which Disney park is the most kid-friendly?
Magic Kingdom is often considered the most kid-friendly park at Disney World. It has classic attractions like "it's a small world" and Peter Pan's Flight, as well as newer attractions like Seven Dwarfs Mine Train and Under the Sea - Journey of the Little Mermaid. Plus, it's home to iconic Disney characters like Mickey Mouse and Cinderella.
