Hi Meagan,
The main differences that I’ve noted between a Value Resort Hotel and a Moderate Resort Hotel are the lack of a table-service restaurant, smaller rooms (and beds), no towel service at the pools (you have to pick up extra towels at the Front Desk or ask that Housekeeping deliver more to your room) and only one “central” bus stop (which can make for a long walk at the end of the day). I’ve also found Moderates tend to be quieter than Values, although that may just be my perception.
If you’re planning to choose a Value Resort Hotel instead of staying at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort - Riverside, then I think that
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort would be perfect for your family, especially if you choose to go with a Family Suite. Because we’re Disney Vacation Club members, my family and I tend to stay in a Deluxe Villa Resort during our visits to Walt Disney World Resort. Last year, however, we decided to try something different and opted for a Cars Family Suite at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. Well, our little guy, who was almost 3 at the time, absolutely LOVED it!! From the details in the room, to the huge Cars icons, to the Big Blue Pool, there was a ton there to surprise and delight him throughout our stay. He keeps asking us when we’ll be returning to “Lightning McQueen’s House”.
If a Family Suite isn’t in the cards, budget-wise, then instead of staying in one of the Little Mermaid Standard Rooms (which are quite far from the main building, Animation Hall), I think that
Disney’s Pop Century Resort would also be a ton of fun for your little one.
Have a Magical Day,
Lynne