Hi there, Travis, and welcome to planDisney! It's awesome that you've stopped by with this great question about planning a Walt Disney World Resort vacation! It sounds like you're ready to get the planning process started for a visit to the Most Magical Place on Earth in 2026. I always say it's never too soon to start planning a Disney vacation!
Travis, at this time, you can book a Disney Resorts Collection hotel stay through the end of 2025. My best advice would be to keep an eye on the Walt Disney World Resort website, Disney Parks Blog, and official Disney social media accounts for the latest news about new dates opening up for bookings. Now is a great time to think about which Disney Resorts Collection hotel you'd like to call "home" during your visit. I'd love to help walk you through that process!
When choosing a Disney Resorts Collection hotel, you'll want to think about theme, location, and budget. All of the Resorts are conveniently located and offer complimentary transportation throughout Walt Disney World Resort. However, each is themed differently and offers a variety of amenities. Here are a few of my favorite Disney Resorts Collection hotels:
Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge is a Deluxe Resort, meaning it's among the higher-priced hotels. It offers traditional Guest rooms along with some 1-, 2-, and 3-Bedroom Villas that include full kitchens and washers and dryers in the room. Just outside your hotel room is a gorgeous view of the Savanna, where you'll see giraffes, zebras, birds, and more roaming throughout the day. The restaurants at this Resort offer African and Indian-inspired cuisine, and it's a feast for all of the senses.
Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort is a Moderate Resort that'll make you feel like you're taking an island getaway! It's conveniently located on the Disney Skyliner with quick access to EPCOT and Disney's Hollywood Studios. Sebastian's Bistro is a table service restaurant here, and it's one of my favorite dining experiences in all of Walt Disney World Resort.
Disney's Art of Animation Resort is a Value Resort with some of the most incredible theming you'll find. If you're a fan of
The Lion King, Finding Nemo, and other animated Disney films, you'll love walking through the halls and feeling like you're part of the story. The Big Blue Pool is the largest of all of the Resort pools! Here, you'll also find a unique type of room called a Family Suite, perfect for families of up to six people, who'd like a bit more space.
You can't go wrong with any of the Disney Resorts Collection hotels. Once you know where you'd like to stay, you can go ahead and book it when it becomes available. I hope this is helpful to you! Please stop back by planDisney with any other questions you have!
See you real soon!
Jennifer