Hey Maggie!
You sound like you want to enjoy every minute of your vacation at Walt Disney World Resort without wasting any time. I like how you think!
My personal favorite moderate resort is
Disney's Port Orleans Resort - French Quarter. You'll feel like you've stepped into New Orleans when you enter this resort with its cobblestone streets and gas lanterns. It's one of the smaller moderate resorts, so you'll spend less time walking to and from your room. Everything you will need is conveniently located near the main lobby including
Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory where you can grab a quick bite to eat before heading off to the parks. Because of the location, it's a short bus ride to Magic Kingdom Park, Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios. Going to Disney's Animal Kingdom will be the longest bus ride, but you'll still be there in about 15 minutes or less.
In addition, Downtown Disney is just a short boat ride away where you can explore all of the shopping, dining and nightlife that it has to offer.
I feel sure that if you choose to stay at Disney's Port Orleans Resort - French Quarter, you'll love it as much as I do, and you won't waste a minute of your vacation.
Have a magical trip!
~Carrie