2014 Disney World vacation rates will be available on July 10th, so many of my friends and clients are starting to consider their lodging options. With so many onsite Disney resorts to choose from, this task can quickly become overwhelming. To help, I'm starting a four-part blog series on "Choosing the Perfect Disney Resort".
Disney onsite resorts are divided into five categories: value resorts, moderate resorts, deluxe resorts, deluxe villa resorts, and a campground. All of the resorts in each category are impeccably-themed and sparkling clean, and Cast Members are trained to provide the highest level of customer service in the industry. Each category, however, varies in amenities and location. I'm going to start this series by profiling the deluxe resorts.
Each deluxe resort offers all of the amenities that you would expect from a four-star hotel. From award-winning restaurants to concierge services to brilliant views, these resort hotels have it all!! Furthermore, each deluxe resort is located within close proximity to at least one theme park.
In the Magic Kingdom area, guests can choose from four resorts: the Grand Floridian, the Polynesian, the Contemporary, and the Wilderness Lodge. The first three resorts feature the added convenience of being situated on the monorail loop (the monorail even runs through the Contemporary). The Wilderness Lodge is not located on this loop, but it is only a short ferry ride to the Magic Kingdom.
Epcot area resorts include the Beach Club, the Yacht Club, and the Boardwalk. Within walking distance to Epcot's World Showcase and near Disney's Hollywood Studios, these resorts offer the ultimate convenience for guests who plan to spend significant time at either of these theme parks.
Finally, Animal Kingdom Lodge is situated just minutes from the Animal Kingdom theme park. Some guest rooms even feature views of the sprawling savannah where real animals roam!
So, which Disney deluxe resort is right for you? The answer depends entirely on the needs and preferences of your family. For families with small children (or for those who want to be near the "heart of the magic"), I always recommend a Magic Kingdom resort, preferably on the monorail if possible. My absolute favorite is the Contemporary resort. Home to the Chef Mickey's character meal and within walking distance to the Magic Kingdom, this resort offers the ultimate convenience for families. For adults, the view of the Magic Kingdom fireworks from the top of the award-winning California Grill is truly unforgettable.
For families with older children (or for those who enjoy a more laid-back vibe), I recommend an Epcot resort. My favorite is the Beach Club. Featuring a gigantic pool complex, a character meal, convenient ferry service to Hollywood Studios, and a view of Epcot's World Showcase, this resort has something for everyone.
Finally, for those guests who are not planning to spend a lot of time in the theme parks, the Animal Kingdom Lodge is the perfect choice. Perhaps the most unique and stunning of all the Disney resorts, the Animal Kingdom Lodge is truly one-of-a-kind. The only drawback to this resort is that it is located off the beaten path. While dependable bus service is provided to all four theme parks, this resort's faraway location makes for longer bus rides to the parks (with the exception of the Animal Kingdom park).
For more information and photos of each resort, you can check out my photo albums on my Facebook page or e-mail me at disneymadeeasy@yahoo.com for a no-obligation personalized resort recommendation.
Meredith McCutcheon
Disney Specialist
Owner, Magic Minus the Mayhem: Rochester Hills, MI
