Hiya, Sarah! Welcome to planDisney!
One of the best parts about vacationing at
Walt Disney World is how easy it is to get around, no matter where you stay. Whether you’re heading to one of the four theme parks, the water parks, or the dining and entertainment at Disney Springs, you’ll have access to
Disney’s complimentary transportation system. From buses and boats to the world-famous monorail and the Disney Skyliner, it’s all designed to make getting around the resort as smooth and convenient as possible.
When it comes to choosing the right resort for your family, I always suggest thinking about which park you’ll be spending most of your time in. When my boys were around your kids’ ages, Magic Kingdom was easily the favorite. If you think your family will be the same way, the Deluxe Resorts on the monorail line are hard to beat. My personal pick in this category is
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. In the mornings, my wife and I loved being able to walk to and from Magic Kingdom without relying on transportation, especially at the end of a long day. We’d grab Mickey waffles for the boys at Gasparilla Island Grill, fill our refillable mugs with coffee, and enjoy a peaceful 10-15-minute stroll to the park. It’s a great way to start the day before the excitement begins.
If you think EPCOT or Disney’s Hollywood Studios might be your family’s go-to parks, I’d look at the Resorts along Disney’s BoardWalk area.
Disney’s Beach Club Resort is my top recommendation there. You can walk to both parks, and the pool area, Stormalong Bay, is hands down the best on property. It's basically a mini water park. The dining options are also fantastic, both at the resort and nearby on the BoardWalk.
For something a bit more budget-friendly that still offers great transportation,
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort and
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort are both connected to the Disney Skyliner. The Skyliner is a gondola system that glides you right to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios, and it’s a big hit with kids. Caribbean Beach has a relaxed island vibe, while Art of Animation immerses you in some of Disney’s most beloved stories. The Family Suites there are perfect for families like yours, offering extra space, two bathrooms, and incredible theming in options like The Lion King, Cars, or Finding Nemo.
Since you mentioned Animal Kingdom, I have to include Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge on the list. It’s a bit farther from the other parks, but the experience is truly special. The resort overlooks a savanna where giraffes, zebras, and other animals roam freely. A savanna-view room is a memory your kids won’t forget. You can enjoy morning coffee on the balcony while the animals graze just beyond the railing.
Sarah, the great thing is that you really can’t go wrong. Each resort offers something unique, whether it’s location, theming, or amenities. Take a look around the Walt Disney World website, explore the resort options that fit your family’s needs and budget, and if you narrow it down to a few,
send me another question. I’d be happy to help you weigh in and share my experience to help you make your final choice.
Brent