On
Dec 9, 2008
Elinor from CT
Asked
Note: This answer was provided prior to the change to planDisney and may still contain references to Disney Parks Moms Panel.
Experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.
“
what are the best resorts to stay at?”
There are four types of WDW resort hotels: value, moderate, deluxe, and villa. Each of these types of hotels are "best" for different types of guests in different situations. However, in general, you will have an easier more luxurious experience in the deluxe (and in some cases the villa) resorts. The deluxe hotels are:
Grand Floridian
Polynesian
Contemporary
Yacht Club
Beach Club
Boardwalk Inn
Animal Kingdom Lodge
Wilderness Lodge
At each of these resorts you will find top-notch service, easy access to one or more theme parks, a full range of restaurants, recreation facilities, great pools, and more. I personally have stayed in all of these hotels except the Polynesian. My favorite themeing and restaurants are in the Wilderness Lodge. However, for sheer luxury and convenience to the Magic Kingdom, you're going to want the Grand Floridian. I stayed there with my family about two weeks ago. We loved having afternoon tea in the Garden View Lounge, strolling through the boutiques, and listening to the live music in the evenings. During the holidays, the GF is particularly special because of the sumptuous decorations throughout the resort.
That said, my family's favorite place to stay at WDW is the Beach Club. It offers all the deluxe amenities, plus it has BY FAR the best pool at WDW. The pool, Stormalong Bay, is for exclusive use of the Yacht & Beach Club guests. It is three acres big and includes water slides, a lazy river, waterfalls, whirlpools, and a real sand bottom. At the Beach Club you are also within walking distance of both Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios. This makes park touring a breeze and expands the scope of easy dining options exponentially.
If you want an even better experience within the best hotels, the deluxe resorts also offer concierge level rooms, suites, and other premium amenities. For pricing on all Disney hotels, call 407-W-DISNEY.