Hey there, Kristin! We're so happy you stopped by the Disney Parks Moms Panel today! Planning a vacation with tweens can be very magical. At this age, Mouseketeers don't need neep naps, and they start to get a little more adventurous about trying new things such as attractions and dining choices. One thing I also noticed that my kids craved at this age was a little downtime at our Walt Disney World Resort hotel. This was when we started including our boys in our trip planning, and it was amazing to see how excited they were about researching each resort and its amenities. I'd be happy to share my family's personal favorites, and I'll give you a few options that would suit every budget!
My first suggestion is
Disney's Pop Century Resort. This value resort is divided into sections representing decades from the 1950s through the 1990s and is themed accordingly, with larger than life icons (including Disney characters). Although the rooms are a little on the small side, they were refurbished in 2018, and I love the new look! One of the beds is now a Murphy bed (which folds up to create a table), and it is surprisingly comfortable. But the best part about staying at this resort is it is conveniently located next to a
Disney Skyliner station. I think your girls would love zipping over to
EPCOT or
Disney's Hollywood Studios in a spiffy gondola!
There are two Port Orleans resorts at Walt Disney World, but
Disney's Port Orleans Resort - French Quarter is my favorite. It sits on the banks of the Sassagoula River and oozes southern hospitality. And, they have Mickey-shaped beignets here...need I say more? Guests can
rent bikes, boats, take
horse drawn carriage rides, and go cane pole fishing at Ol' Man Island. Plus, you're just a
boat ride away from
Disney Springs!
Disney's Polynesian Village Resort is one of Walt Disney World's original resort hotels, and I think still one of its best. The reason I like to stay here is...LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION! Having quick and easy access to the theme parks is super important to most families, and you can't beat staying at a resort on the
monorail line. Your kids will also enjoy splashing around in the Lava Pool, which features a water slide housed in a volcano; where else can you swim in paradise and have a view of Cinderella Castle?! The Polynesian Village Beach is also a great viewing spot for the nightly
Electrical Water Pageant, a nostalgic favorite of mine.
I hope this helps, Kristin! We hope to see ya' again real soon!
Eean