Hiya, Emily, and welcome to planDisney. I'm excited about the trip you're planning to
Walt Disney World Resort later this year, and you're wise to stay at a
Disney Resort Hotel. I love the
Early Theme Park Entry benefit because my family can experience a couple of high-demand attractions before the parks open to the general public. We also enjoy the ease of using the complimentary
Resort Transportation options, so let's jump right into comparing the resorts in the value category.
My top recommendation is
Disney's Pop Century Resort. This resort has access to the Disney Skyliner, which makes traveling to
EPCOT and
Disney's Hollywood Studios a breeze. The rooms in this resort were all refurbished over the past few years, and the updates are fantastic. The solid-surface floors are gorgeous, and the use of space is so practical. My tip is to ask for a room in the 1960s section near the Hippy Dippy Pool because you'll also be close to the Disney Skyliner station. A bonus tip is to stroll around Hourglass Lake on the paved path. Such a hidden gem!
Close by is my second choice,
Disney's Art of Animation Resort. The Little Mermaid Standard Rooms are fun but a bit further from transportation and the resort amenities. These rooms had a smaller-scale update a couple of years ago, with the main changes being the addition of solid-surface floors and queen-sized beds. This resort is across the lake from Pop Century, so they are both in the Wide World of Sports Resort area.
Finally, you can choose Disney's All-Star Resorts in Disney's Animal Kingdom Resort area. The
All-Star Movies and
All-Star Music Resorts received recent updates with new flooring and shower design, so these would be the best value for a refurbished room.
Disney's All-Star Sports Resort has yet to have its refurbishment, but this one was always my son's favorite with its giant-sized athletic fields and theming. Disneys All-Star Resorts use Disney Bus Service to the theme parks.
And there you have it, Emily! I suggest you and your family look at photos on the Walt Disney World website for each resort and consider the transportation options and recreational activities offered. Pricing will be comparable, but the All-Star Resorts are typically the most economical.
You really can't go wrong with any Disney Resort Hotel, Emily! They're unique and special in their own way. I can't wait to hear what you decide! Please feel free to
stop by planDisney anytime. I'd love to help!
Magic awaits,
Elaine