Many families visiting Walt Disney World for the first time are looking for comfortable and fun budget-level accommodation giving you a sense of that being at Disney but without breaking the bank. For this reason, as a TA, I run quotes for Disney’s Value Resorts more than any other level of accommodation at Walt Disney World. That’s why it’s not surprising that one the questions I get asked most often is “Which is the best Value Resort to choose?” Though every Disney visitors will have their favorite go-to property, I have had the opportunity to stay at each of the Disney’s Values and have ranked my favorites in the hopes that it will guide you through the planning process. But remember, lists are subjective and each of the resorts on our list is wonderful in its own respect so go with the options that you think will work best for you!
5. Disney’s All Star Sports Resort – (pictured) We’ll start with the first of Disney’s All Star Value properties. Disney has three resorts in this category (Sports, Movies and Music) and the one aspect that sets this property apart from the pack is that usually has greater availability than the other two properties which can often mean better rates and makes it a nice option for last-minute Disney getaways. I chalk this up to the theming of the property which might not appeal to families as much as the other two. Another perk that this property has going for it is the bus service to and from the Walt Disney World theme parks. Depending on the season, all of the All Star properties share resort buses which means depending on where you stay you may have to make a few stops before heading to/dropping off from the parks. Luckily All Star Sports is the first stop on this route meaning less waiting and not having to worry about buses filling up. When it comes to downsides for this property, comments that we often receive is that the rooms and decor feel more dating than some of the other Values. Also, this resort frequently plays host to large school groups coming in for trips or competitions at ESPN Wide World of Sports. Should your travel dates coincide with one of these massive events you will feel the impact!
4. Disney’s All Star Movies Resort – This is hands down the most popular of the three All Star Resorts at Walt Disney World as guests like the Disney movie theming including the delightful Fantasia themed central pool area. However, its popularity causes one slight disadvantage with this resort, it can be exempt from discounts like this year’s FREE Dining promotion. Similar to All Star Sports, this property also feels a bit dated compared to some of the other values, particularly in the Mighty Ducks section. Rooms are in need of a refresh (which is happening) and are pretty standard offering 2 double beds. However, we do absolutely love the Toy Story Section of this property which is fun, playful and really makes you feel like you’re at Disney. Because Woody and friends will be all the rage with the opening of Toy Story Land this resort will still remain popular and for that reason tends to book up quicker than the other All-Star properties.
3. Disney’s All-Star Music Resort – I have to admit that this is my go-to Disney property at Walt Disney World and I think there’s a lot to love about All Star Music. Out of all of the All Stars I find this property to be the cleanest and most updated. Staff here are wonderful and have always made my family feel well looked after during our stay and the theming is fun, colorful and full of life which is just what you want from the value properties. The central Calypso pool area is terrific and definitely gives off those island vibes that you want on holiday. For those traveling with larger groups, the property also offers Family Suites which provide slightly more amenities but at a cheaper rate than the suites over at Art of Animation. This property is also regularly included in discounts and a reliable option for last minute planners.
For more reasons why we love All Star Music check out this article.
2. Art of Animation Resort – Disney’s newest value on the block wins when it comes to Disney-theming. From the moment that you walk into the colorful lobby, you will feel like you’ve stepped right into a Disney movie. The Imagineering that went into creating the themed lands of this resort is truly something to behold with sections themed after The Little Mermaid, The Lion King, Cars and Finding Nemo. The details are even carried into the guest rooms with fun touches. For instance, the bathtubs in the Little Mermaid section are tiled to look like Ariels Grotto. There’s also a terrific food court Landscapes of Flavor offering a plentiful array of dining options for everyone from daring to picky eaters. However, what stops this resort from being tops in our list is price. Due to the popularity of the Little Mermaid Rooms, they are never included in discount offers making them the most expensive Value rooms at Disney. The resort also offers fun family suites that are brimming with incredible touches, however, the cost of these is more akin to a Deluxe Resort which can disappoint a lot of budget-minded travellers.
1. Disney’s Pop Century Resort – This value property is the fan favorite at Walt Disney World and for some pretty good reasons. Pop Century definitely feels more updated than the All-Stars and provides a more affordable option than Art of Animation. The rooms at Pop Century are all being remodelled and are designed to offer fun touches and more space for families – they’re pretty amazing. We love the laid-back vibes of the central pool area as well as the bowling pin swimming pool in the 1905’s section of the resort which is a favorite for my family. The only real downside to this resort is that the theming may not be as appealing to families as some of the other properties with each section being modelled after a decade like the 50’s, 60, 70’s etc. Also because of the popularity of the new rooms this resort can be tougher to book and is frequently the first of the Values to sell out. This means that if you’re planning a last-minute getaway you are unlikely to be able to nab a room here. You’ll also find rooms here slightly more expensive than at the All-Star Resorts but not as expensive as Art of Animation making it the go-to middle of the road option.
When it comes to planning your Walt Disney World getaway we hope we’ve managed to provide you with some helpful insights. But remember when it comes to picking your perfect property go with your gut!
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Find articles like this helpful? Then why not consider working with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner? As an agent with MickeyTravels, I’ll be on hand to help you with everything from finding your perfect itinerary and stateroom to nabbing the best rates. I also love sharing tips and tricks to help you get the most out of your time at Sea. Best of all my services are absolutely FREE. Get in touch at 1.800.801.4025 via email at mroden@mickeytravels.com or follow along on Facebook.
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