Best Disney Resorts 2026: Family-Friendly Disney Hotels & Resort Reviews

Ryan Jones
Aug 29
6 min read

Choosing the right resort can make or break your Disney World vacation. In 2026, families have more options than ever, from budget-friendly value hotels to luxurious deluxe resorts with direct park access. With so many choices, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why we’ve compiled this in-depth guide with resort reviews, firsthand experiences, and tips to help you find the best Disney resort for your family. Whether you’re traveling with toddlers, teens, or grandparents, there’s a perfect fit waiting for you.

Two cartoon cars, one yellow and one blue, are in front of a colorful building with a tire tower. The sign reads "Luigi's Casa Della Tires." — Cars Section at The Art of Animation

Best Disney Resorts 2026 at a Glance

When it comes to choosing where to stay at Walt Disney World, families should think about budget, location, and amenities. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Value Resorts: Affordable and fun theming, best for budget-conscious families.
Moderate Resorts: Balanced pricing, pools with slides, and a bit more comfort.
Deluxe Resorts: Larger rooms, better dining, and premium locations near the parks.

Value Tier: Best Budget-Friendly Disney Resorts for Families

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

Art of Animation is often called the most “kid-focused” resort in all of Disney World. Families are surrounded by massive statues of Disney and Pixar characters like Lightning McQueen, Ariel, and Simba. The Finding Nemo and Cars family suites are especially popular because they sleep up to six people, offer kitchenettes, and come with two bathrooms—a lifesaver for larger families. Kids love the Big Blue Pool, the largest resort pool on Disney property, complete with splash zones and underwater music.

Pros for Families:

Themed family suites with extra space.
Best pools among Disney’s Value resorts.
Larger-than-life Disney character theming.

Colorful hotel facade with large Ursula statue, vibrant sea creature sculptures, and ocean-inspired decor under a bright blue sky. — Little Mermaid Rooms Section

A vibrant gondola system crosses over a serene lake reflecting colorful cars. The backdrop features artistic buildings and lush trees. — The Skyliner Station at The Resort

Vibrant pool scene at dusk with colorful jellyfish sculptures, themed murals, palm trees, and a bright blue water setting. — The Big Blue Pool

Colorful buildings with large retro objects: a giant blue cell phone, Rubik's Cube, and "NETWORKING" text. Green lawns and clear sky. — Room Section at Pop Century

Disney’s Pop Century Resort

Pop Century combines fun retro theming with modern conveniences, making it a favorite for both parents and kids. Its biggest advantage is Skyliner gondola access, which provides fast, scenic rides to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. Standard rooms are smaller than deluxe or moderate resorts, but they’re perfectly functional for families who plan to spend most of their time in the parks.

Highlights:

Skyliner transportation saves time.
Fun theming with giant 20th-century icons.
Usually lower-priced than Art of Animation.

Large cartoon rabbit statue in red overalls stands on a barrel labeled "TURPENTINE" outside a brightly lit, colorful building at night.

Hotel room with a large bed, Mickey Mouse art above, and red curtains. Modern decor, wooden furniture, TV, white walls, and bright lighting. — Standard Room

Colorful poolside scene with scattered loungers, umbrellas, and people swimming. Play-Doh statue and "Peace" sign in the background. Sunny day. — Main pool at resort

Large toy characters from Toy Story, Rex and Woody, in a playful outdoor setup with books and toy soldiers. Bright colors, dusk sky. — Toy Story Section at All Star Movies Resort

Disney’s All-Star Resorts

The All-Star Resorts—Movies, Music, and Sports—are Disney’s most affordable hotels. While they lack Skyliner access and tend to be busier, they’re still a great option for families on a tight budget. Kids love the oversized décor, from giant guitars to massive Dalmatian statues, and parents appreciate the low nightly rates.

Colorful hotel with a giant football helmet and field at night. Flags wave atop the balconies. Bright stadium lights illuminate the scene. — Football Section at All Star Sports Resort

Large cowboy boot statues at night beside a lit building with music notes. Trees and a bench in the foreground, creating a serene atmosphere. — Country Section at All Star Musi cResort

Moderate Tier: Family-Friendly Disney Hotels with Balance

Family walks near palm trees and a pink building with a beach vibe. Cable cars above, blue sky, casual and cheerful atmosphere. — Caribbean Beach Resort

Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

Caribbean Beach Resort is one of the most family-friendly moderate options, thanks to its pirate-themed pool and Disney Skyliner access. Families love the tropical theming and the chance to book “Under the Sea” rooms for extra Disney magic. The aquatic play area is perfect for toddlers, while older kids enjoy the larger slides.

Why Families Choose It:

Pirate-themed aquatic playground.
Direct Skyliner access to EPCOT & Hollywood Studios.
Vibrant, island-inspired atmosphere.

People enjoying a sunny day at a pool with castle-like structures, blue sky, palm trees, and colorful swimsuits. Relaxed and playful mood. — Resort Pool

Pink buildings with green roofs, surrounded by palm trees and lush gardens. Pathways wind through the sunny, tropical setting. — Resort Buildings and Walk Ways

Pirate-themed hotel room with a ship-shaped bed, red patterned runner, barrel nightstand, and nautical lights. Blue walls and a pirate painting. — Pirates Bed at Caribbean Beach Resort

Disney’s Port Orleans – Riverside & French Quarter

These sister resorts bring Southern charm to Walt Disney World. Riverside’s Royal Guest Rooms are decorated with nods to Disney princesses, while French Quarter feels more compact and whimsical, making it easy to navigate with kids. Families love the boat service to Disney Springs, adding a fun travel option beyond buses.

illuminated building with balconies at dusk, palm trees, and pathway with glowing streetlights, set against a deep blue evening sky. — Rooms at Disney’s Port Orleans – French Quarter

Hotel room with two wooden beds, white linens, green accent wall, decorative lights, and artwork. A bathroom is visible in the background. — Rooms at Disney’s Port Orleans – French Quarter

Blue dragon slide in a pool, kids playing, one sliding down pink tongue. Palm trees, people sunbathing, relaxed and fun atmosphere. — Pool at Disney’s Port Orleans – French Quarter

Blue building with red water wheel on a pond, surrounded by trees. Stone bridge and tower in the background under a cloudy sky. Peaceful mood. — Lobby Area at Disney's Port Orleans Resort - Riverside

Fountain jets frame a large house with white columns and green railings. Red steps lead to the entrance, surrounded by lush greenery. — Room Building at Disney's Port Orleans Resort - Riverside

Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort (Gran Destino Tower)

Coronado Springs blends moderate pricing with deluxe-style amenities. The Gran Destino Tower offers sleek, modern rooms and suites perfect for families who want a bit more luxury without paying deluxe prices. While it doesn’t have Skyliner access, its large pool complex and Spanish-inspired theming make it stand out.

Elegant hotel at dusk, lights glowing warmly against a deep blue sky. Palm trees and pond reflections create a serene atmosphere. — Disney's Coronado Springs Resort

Gran Destino Tower Disney's Coronado Springs Resort

Pool at Disney's Coronado Springs Resort

Deluxe Tier: Best Disney Resorts for Families Who Want It All

Beachfront resort with pastel blue and white Victorian-style architecture, lush gardens, and a canal. Bright day with blue skies. — Disney's Beach Club Resort

Disney’s Beach Club Resort

If we had to name one resort as the best Disney hotel for families in 2026, Beach Club takes the crown. The highlight is Stormalong Bay, a three-acre pool complex with a lazy river, sandy-bottom pools, and a giant waterslide built into a shipwreck. Its location is unbeatable, with walking paths to both EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. Families also enjoy Cape May Café for character dining.

Tropical resort at dusk with lit pathways, palm trees, and sandy foreground. Warm lights illuminate red-roofed, multi-story buildings. — Disney's Polynesian Village Resort

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

The Polynesian is a fan favorite for its tropical theming, Lava Pool, and character dining at ‘Ohana. Families love the convenience of being on the monorail line with direct access to Magic Kingdom. With lush gardens, torch-lit walkways, and a beach overlooking Cinderella Castle, the Polynesian is both kid-friendly and romantic for parents.

Monorail passes a lit, A-frame hotel at twilight. The sky is pink and blue. Palm trees and greenery decorate the foreground. Calm mood. — Disney's Contemporary Resort

Disney’s Contemporary Resort (Garden Wing & Main Tower)

Parents of toddlers rave about the Contemporary’s Garden Wing, which is less expensive than the Main Tower but still within walking distance to Magic Kingdom. Families benefit from large rooms, convenient access for nap breaks, and on-site dining like Chef Mickey’s and Steakhouse 71. The Contemporary is the only resort with a monorail running through the lobby—something kids never forget.

Hotel pool with lounge chairs surrounded by lush greenery and trees. A building with warm tones is visible in the background under a blue sky. — Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

If your kids are animal lovers, Animal Kingdom Lodge is the ultimate choice. Families can book Savanna View rooms to watch giraffes, zebras, and antelopes right from their balcony. The African-inspired theming, cultural activities, and unique dining make it one of Disney’s most immersive resorts. While transportation relies solely on buses, the experience often outweighs the inconvenience.

Illuminated pool at night with a grand house in the background. Vibrant blue water, red umbrellas, and a peaceful ambiance. — Disney's Yacht Club Resort

Disney’s Yacht Club & BoardWalk Inn

Both resorts sit along Crescent Lake and offer walking or boat access to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. Yacht Club is slightly more upscale, while BoardWalk Inn adds carnival-style entertainment and a vibrant evening atmosphere. Families love the shared Stormalong Bay pool with Beach Club.

Elegant hotel with red roofs and white facade, framed by palm trees. Blue pool and lounging chairs in the sunny foreground. — Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Known as Disney’s most luxurious hotel, the Grand Floridian offers Victorian elegance and monorail access to Magic Kingdom. While it’s on the pricier side, families love the spacious rooms, fine dining, and character meals at 1900 Park Fare. It’s perfect for those seeking the ultimate upscale Disney experience.

Special Picks for Families of 5

Best Suites: Art of Animation family suites, Coronado Springs suites, Bay Lake Tower villas.
Best Budget Option: All-Star Music family suites and Fort Wilderness Cabins.

Best Pools & Splash Pads for Kids

Stormalong Bay (Beach & Yacht Club): Best overall pool complex.
Big Blue Pool (Art of Animation): Best themed value pool.
Fuentes del Morro Pool (Caribbean Beach): Best moderate-tier pool.
Lava Pool (Polynesian): Best deluxe resort waterslide.

Dining Options That Make Resorts Kid-Friendly

Resorts with On-Site Character Dining:

Chef Mickey’s – Contemporary.
Cape May Café – Beach Club.
‘Ohana – Polynesian.
Story Book Dining – Wilderness Lodge.

Best Quick Service for Families:

Landscape of Flavors – Art of Animation.
Contempo Café – Contemporary.
Centertown Market – Caribbean Beach.

Disney Resort Reviews FAQ 2026

Is it worth staying at a Disney resort vs. offsite?

Yes—onsite guests get perks like early park entry, easier transportation, and immersive theming.

Which Disney resorts are best for toddlers?

Contemporary (Garden Wing), Art of Animation, and Beach Club.

What’s the cheapest Disney Deluxe resort?

Wilderness Lodge and Animal Kingdom Lodge typically have the lowest deluxe rates.

Are family suites worth the upgrade?

Yes, if you need extra space, a kitchenette, or multiple bathrooms.

Which resort has the best character dining?

Chef Mickey’s at the Contemporary and ‘Ohana at Polynesian are fan favorites.

Best Disney Resorts 2026 for Families

Every Disney World resort has its own magic, but the best choice for your family depends on budget, location, and priorities. Art of Animation shines for families with young kids who love characters, Caribbean Beach is a great moderate with Skyliner convenience, and Beach Club is the ultimate deluxe pick with unmatched pool and park access. No matter where you stay, Disney’s resorts are designed to make your vacation more magical, comfortable, and family-focused.

Planning your 2026 Disney trip? Work with a trusted Disney travel planner to get personalized resort recommendations, exclusive perks, and stress-free booking.