How to Choose a Deluxe Hotel at Disney World
There are seven Disney-owned hotels classified as deluxe properties at the Walt Disney World resort, and each has its own ambiance and advantages. It can be a hard choice to decide between sleeping near an African savannah, staying in a National Park-style lodge, or basking in Polynesian charm, but if you focus on practical considerations your choice will be a little easier.
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At which of the theme parks do you plan to spend the most time? If you favor the Magic Kingdom, the Grand Floridian, Polynesian and Contemporary hotels all offer boat and monorail service. The Wilderness Lodge isn't on the monorail line, but it offers a boat to the Magic Kingdom. If you're more interested in Epcot and Disney Hollywood Studios, Boardwalk and the Yacht and Beach Clubs are within easy walking distance from Epcot's International Gateway. You can walk to the Studio, too, although it's more of a hike, but those three hotels also offer boat service to both of those parks. If you're a fan of the Animal Kingdom, the Animal Kingdom Lodge is practically next door to its namesake. You'll have to take a bus, but the ride is very short.
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Will you spend most of your time at the theme parks, or do you plan to enjoy the hotel's amenities? If you like to spend downtime at your hotel, choose the deluxe property that offers an appealing atmosphere and activities. Most of them offer boat rentals, but Animal Kingdom Lodge is the exception, so skip it if you life to rent watercraft. However, if you're an animal lover, the Lodge is a great choice because it's surrounded by savannahs populated by wild animals. If you love pools, the Beach Club features a unique sand-bottomed pool.
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What sort of atmosphere do you prefer? The Grand Floridian and the Yacht and Beach Clubs tend to have a more upscale atmosphere. Animal Kingdom Lodge, the Wilderness Lodge and the Polynesian all have a special flavor based on their specific theming. The Contemporary is the perfect spot for monorail fans, since the sleek trains run right through the building. Boardwalk appeals to those who enjoy nightlife, since it has several clubs.
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Are you on a budget? Even though these seven hotels are all classified as deluxe properties, their prices can still vary. If you are flexible, compare the prices at each and their room rates might help you make your choice.
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Tips & Warnings
The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin hotels are considered deluxe properties and are conveniently located near Epcot and Disney Hollywood Studio, but they are not Disney-owned. Even though they share boat service with the Boardwalk, Yacht and Beach Club hotels, the Swan is actually run by Westin and the Dolphin is run by Sheraton. While Disney extends certain courtesies to guests at these two resorts such as early entry or extended hours at the theme parks, other privileges are denied. For example, their restaurants are not on the Disney Dining Plan and the "Tables in Wonderland" discount cannot be used at them.
