Hi Greg,
Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel! As someone who always travels on a budget, I understand your dilemma!
Although I have enjoyed some great stays at Disney's
value resort hotels, my family prefers
deluxe and deluxe villa resort hotels. For us, the incredible amenities and proximity to the theme parks are worth the additional cost. Disney's Contemporary Resort Hotel is one of our favorite resort hotels because it is within walking distance of Magic Kingdom. When we return from Magic Kingdom after the fireworks, we bypass the long lines for bus and monorail transportation and enjoy a quick 10-minute stroll back to the resort. Disney's Contemporary Resort, Polynesian Village Resort and Grand Floridian Resort & Spa all have access to the resort monorail, water and bus transportation.
Deluxe and deluxe villa resort hotels also have other fabulous amenities - the dining options are my favorite! At Disney's Contemporary Resort, we always dine at Chef Mickey's and California Grill. We watch the fireworks from California Grill while dining. There is nothing that quite compares to that experience! At Disney's Polynesian Village resort, we adore dining at 'Ohana. And, we were able to walk to Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa for breakfast at 1900 Park Fare.
Greg, I cannot predict when you might win the lottery, but I can suggest that you keep checking the
Special Offers to see when a good deal comes along for one of the deluxe or deluxe villa resort hotels! Also, consider doing a split stay - two nights at a deluxe resort hotel and a few nights at a value resort hotel.
Magic, memories and Minnie Mouse hugs,
Donyell