Walt Disney World Hotels and Resorts: What to Expect Today

Walt Disney World resorts offer a spectrum of accommodations - Value, Moderate, Deluxe, and Deluxe Villas - designed for different budgets and travel styles. On-site transportation (buses, monorail, boats, Skyliner) and guest benefits like Early Theme Park Entry simplify park access. Rooms range from standard hotel rooms to multi-bedroom villas with kitchens. Check current rates, resort-specific amenities, and recent service changes before booking.

Overview

Walt Disney World hotels and resorts in Orlando offer a range of accommodations, from budget-minded Value properties to full-service Deluxe Resorts and villas. Each resort aims to combine convenience, themed environments, and on-site services so guests can focus on the parks and family time.

Resort categories and where they fit

Disney currently groups its on-site options into Value, Moderate, Deluxe, and Deluxe Villa categories. Value resorts focus on essentials and family-friendly theming. Moderates add more dining and recreation. Deluxe resorts provide larger rooms, more dining options, and premium locations near the parks, while Deluxe Villas (many part of the Disney Vacation Club) include studio through multi-bedroom units with kitchenettes or full kitchens.

Getting around and guest benefits

Resort guests still benefit from on-property transportation that connects many hotels to the theme parks via buses, monorail, boats, and the Disney Skyliner gondola. Note that complimentary airport shuttle service (Disney's Magical Express) has been discontinued; airport transfers now rely on third-party options and paid services.

Guests staying at Disney-owned resorts also have access to perks such as Early Theme Park Entry and, for eligible Deluxe properties on select nights, Extended Evening Hours - these make it easier to plan park time before or after standard operating hours.

Rooms, villas, and on-site amenities

Room types range from standard hotel rooms to themed family suites and multi-bedroom villas. Many villas include kitchenettes or full kitchens and private patios or balconies. Across resorts you'll find pools, on-site restaurants, quick-service options, shops, fitness centers, and recreational programs for families. Some resorts offer marinas and boat rentals where appropriate.

Restaurants and lounges vary by property. Signature dining such as the California Grill at Disney's Contemporary Resort continues to be part of the resort-dining landscape, alongside casual family dining and pool-side options.

Why choose a Disney resort?

Staying on property simplifies logistics: you'll be closer to the parks, have easy access to transportation, and can take advantage of guest benefits that help you maximize park time. Resorts also deliver a themed, immersive atmosphere that extends the Disney experience beyond the parks.

Practical notes

Room rates vary widely by season, resort type, and room size. If you're planning a trip, compare Value through Deluxe options and check current resort perks and transportation details before you book. Also confirm any recent changes to guest services or transfers, as Disney's offerings evolve over time. ¹

1. Confirm the year and date when Disney's Magical Express airport shuttle service ended and update the text accordingly.
2. Verify the start date and current status of Early Theme Park Entry implementation and whether any other guest-entry programs have replaced former offerings like Extra Magic Hours.