Top Value Resorts to Stay at Disney World: Affordable and Magical Stays
Disney World is a place where magic happens, but it’s also a destination that can stretch your budget. Fortunately, Disney offers several “Value Resorts” designed to give you a fantastic Disney experience without breaking the bank. These resorts provide all the charm, fun, and convenience of staying on property while keeping costs down. If you’re planning a Disney World vacation and want to stay in the heart of the magic without spending a fortune, here’s a list of the top Value Resorts to consider.
1. Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is one of the most colorful and imaginative value resorts, and it’s perfect for families. With themes inspired by popular Disney and Pixar films like The Lion King, Cars, Finding Nemo, and The Little Mermaid, this resort is designed to immerse guests in their favorite animated worlds.
The resort offers both standard rooms and family suites, the latter of which are perfect for larger groups. Family suites have a kitchenette, making it easy to prepare quick meals or snacks. The resort also features a large, themed pool, The Big Blue Pool, which is the largest pool at any Disney resort.
Why stay here?
- Incredible themed rooms
- Family-friendly with spacious suites
- Great pool and dining options
- Easy access to Skyliner transportation
2. Disney’s Pop Century Resort
Pop Century is a playful resort that celebrates pop culture from the 1950s through the 1990s. It’s full of nostalgia, with larger-than-life icons from each era, such as giant jukeboxes, Rubik’s cubes, and colorful decor. The resort offers affordable standard rooms, and like Art of Animation, it boasts a large pool, The Hippy Dippy Pool, and several themed areas.
Pop Century is also well-known for its convenience: it’s connected to the Disney Skyliner, a gondola transportation system that provides direct access to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This makes it a prime choice for those looking for both affordability and quick transportation to the parks.
Why stay here?
- Nostalgic and fun theming
- Easy access to Skyliner transportation
- Affordable rates with standard rooms
- Recently updated rooms
3. Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort
If you’re looking for a place that feels like you’re staying inside a movie, Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort is the perfect choice. This resort is dedicated to some of Disney’s most beloved films, including The Mighty Ducks, 101 Dalmatians, Fantasia, and Toy Story. The resort has large outdoor icons from these movies, making it fun for both kids and adults.
Though the resort doesn’t have as many amenities as some of the other options, it’s perfect for families who want to enjoy the Disney experience on a budget. Guests can take advantage of the outdoor pool, themed dining, and affordable rooms.
Why stay here?
- Perfect for movie fans
- Affordable and family-friendly
- Great Disney theming throughout
4. Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort
For sports lovers, Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort is an excellent choice. This value resort is designed around different types of sports, with areas dedicated to basketball, football, tennis, and more. The themed areas feature large sports-related icons like a giant football helmet or oversized tennis rackets, which provide fun photo ops.
Like the other All-Star resorts, All-Star Sports offers simple rooms and amenities, making it a great choice for guests looking to stay on Disney property without spending a lot. The resort features a large pool and a quick-service dining area for meals.
Why stay here?
- Perfect for sports enthusiasts
- Fun, sports-themed atmosphere
- Great for budget-conscious travelers
5. Disney’s All-Star Music Resort
Music lovers will feel right at home at Disney’s All-Star Music Resort. Themed around different genres of music, this resort is filled with musical icons, giant instruments, and colorful decor. The resort has several distinct sections dedicated to various music styles, such as jazz, rock ‘n’ roll, Broadway, and country.
This resort offers standard rooms with all the basic amenities, and while it’s a bit quieter than the other All-Star resorts, it still has a fun, festive atmosphere. The pool area features a guitar-shaped pool, adding to the musical charm of the property.
Why stay here?
- Perfect for music lovers
- Fun, musical-themed surroundings
- Budget-friendly with standard rooms
6. Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
While not a traditional hotel, Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground offers a unique and affordable way to experience Disney World. This resort is ideal for families looking for a more rustic, nature-focused experience while still enjoying all the benefits of staying on Disney property.
Guests can opt to camp in tents, park RVs, or stay in the resort’s rustic cabins. The cabins come with kitchenettes, making them perfect for families who want to prepare their own meals. Fort Wilderness is home to a variety of recreational activities, such as horseback riding, fishing, and archery, along with great dining options like Trail’s End Restaurant.
Why stay here?
- A more nature-based Disney experience
- Variety of lodging options (tents, RVs, cabins)
- Great recreational activities and dining
7. Disney’s Wilderness Lodge (Deluxe Value Option)
While it’s technically classified as a “deluxe” resort, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge can sometimes offer great value for those looking for a bit more luxury on a budget. Nestled in a picturesque, forested area with a stunning lobby that mirrors the Pacific Northwest, this resort provides a more elevated experience with reasonable pricing during off-peak seasons.
Guests will enjoy a beautiful, tranquil environment with a themed pool, amazing dining options (including the acclaimed Whispering Canyon Café), and easy access to Magic Kingdom via boat transportation.
Why stay here?
- Stunning theming and scenic surroundings
- Access to Magic Kingdom by boat
- Affordable during off-peak times
Final Thoughts
When planning your Disney World trip, choosing the right resort is key to making the most of your vacation. These value resorts give you the convenience of staying on Disney property, offering plenty of fun theming and amenities while being kind to your wallet. Whether you choose a family suite, a nostalgic experience, or a rustic getaway, you’ll find that staying at these resorts doesn’t mean compromising on the Disney magic.
Each of these resorts provides excellent access to Disney parks, great theming, and affordability, allowing you to focus on creating magical memories with your loved ones.
