Hey there, and welcome to planDisney! Your vacation to Walt Disney World is right around the corner! Between the EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival, (usually) lower crowds, and more — August is an amazing time to visit. And this year is moving so fast that it will be here before you know it!
Genevieve, your question is a complex one. As with most things in life, the answer is - it depends. There are four Disney Springs Area Resorts that classify as official Disney Resorts Collection Hotels:
- Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
- Disney’s Port Orlean Resort - Riverside
- Disney’s Port Orlean Resort - French Quarter
- Disney’s Old Key West Resort
The Disney Springs Area is also home to many other great accommodations that are not official Disney Resorts Collection Hotels. These accommodations are also usually referred to as Disney Springs Area Hotels, which I admit - can be tricky to understand. While they are not official Walt Disney World Resorts, Guests of these hotels do receive access to Early Theme Park Entry. So while any of these hotels are a great option for your vacation, you can’t beat staying in an official Disney Resorts Collection hotel! A Disney Resorts Collection hotel stay ensures those special Walt Disney World feels never end!
And if you stay at a resort near Disney Springs, you should definitely take advantage! Since Disney Springs is an entertainment district, there are always fun surprises in store. There are over 100 shops, 60 restaurants, and 25 attractions, which is why we always spend as much time as we can in Disney Springs on our vacation! If you need a restaurant recommendation, Chef Art Smith's Homecomin' in Disney Springs is the first to come to mind. This restaurant has some really solid southern cuisine, but be sure to save room for their amazing desserts! Our kids love catching a movie at AMC Disney Springs 24 Dine-In Theatres, and my wife loves to hit up UNIQLO and World of Disney for souvenirs. In my opinion, the closer you are to Disney Springs on your Disney Vacation, the better!
I hope this helps, Genevieve! If you have more questions while planning your Disney Vacation, stop back by and let me know.
Until Next Time,
PG