Hello Carol, I'm so happy you stopped by the Disney Parks Moms Panel to ask for some advice on Walt Disney World Resort hotels.I'd love to share my favorites for each of the budget categories.
For the deluxe resorts, I would recommend
Disney's Beach Club Resort. With Stormalong Bay, the main pool area, you will find a zero entry sand bottom pool, as well as, a lazy river and regular pool section. This resort also has one of my favorite restaurants, Beaches & Cream Soda Shop. You can also get a pretty good view of Epcot's and Disney's Hollywood Studios fireworks from the pool and beach area. In the moderate category, my go-to resort is Disney's Port Orleans Resort. The French Quarter section has a
fun and colorful pool area reminiscent of Mardi Gras. There is a shaded playground area as well. If you prefer to stay at the Riverside section, it is a bit more spread out, but offers Ol' Man Island which is a little bigger pool with kiddie area. Fireworks are not as easily viewed from these resorts, but occasionally can be spotted through the trees from various locations on the property. Last, but certainly not least, would be my best recommendation for theming, pool area, playground and splash area for toddlers. Among the value resorts is Disney's Art of Animation Resort. This hotel is themed after several Disney classic movies.
The Big Blue Pool is the largest hotel pool in all of Walt Disney World, is zero entry, has a splash area, and you can even hear music under water. The theming of the rooms is quite amazing, too.
I hope you find what you are looking for based on my suggestions.
~Allison L