When it comes to planning a Walt Disney World vacation, the range of choices can appear overwhelming at first. With dozens of resort hotels, each with its own theme, deciding where to stay is no easy task, but an understanding of the Disney resort categories can make narrowing the choices much simpler.
Disney resort hotels are grouped into four levels. Each level offers different amenities and comes at a different cost. Deluxe and home away from home resorts offer the finest accommodations on Disney property, and a range of services to add a touch of luxury to the family vacation.
Deluxe Resorts
The most expensive and most unique Disney resort hotels are the deluxe resorts. Improved amenities, more elaborate themes, and incomparable location set these resorts apart. Deluxe rooms range from $215 to $690 for standard rooms, with an assortment of suites and concierge level rooms at higher rates.
There are eight Disney deluxe resorts: Polynesian, Contemporary, Grand Floridian, Beach Club, Yacht Club, Boardwalk Inn, Animal Kingdom Lodge and Wilderness Lodge. Each has a distinct theme that is carried through everything from the décor to the lobby music to the dining options.
Deluxe resorts feature premium amenities and expanded transportation options. Disney’s kids clubs, which offer childcare in a fun setting for the children of Disney resort guests, are located in deluxe resorts hotels. Deluxe resorts in the Magic Kingdom area have access to monorail or boat transportation, while Epcot area deluxe resorts share boat service to both Epcot and MGM Studios. Deluxe resorts also offer concierge level service and fine dining restaurants.
Rooms at the deluxe resorts range from 340 to 409 square feet, and feature well themed décor with great attention to detail. Bedding configurations vary from two queens or one king to one queen with bunk beds, and some rooms also have a daybed. Split baths offer extra privacy for getting dressed, and all deluxe resorts have dual sinks outside the bathroom. Most deluxe rooms also have balconies, although the Contemporary and some rooms at the Polynesian were designed without balconies in keeping with the architectural design.
Home Away From Home Resorts
Offering the amenities of condo rentals along with the benefits of staying in an on-site Disney resort, the home away from home resorts are also knows as Disney Vacation Club resorts, and are part of Disney’s time share program. Membership is not required to stay at these hotels, however. Non-members can reserve villas, based on availability. Rates range from $279 to $2090 depending on unit size and season. Villas are available in studio models up to two-story, three bedroom grand villas.
There are six home away from home resorts: Old Key West, Saratoga Springs, Beach Club Villas, Boardwalk Villas, Villas at Wilderness Lodge, and Animal Kingdom Lodge Villas. With the exception of Old Key West and Saratoga Springs, these resorts share the grounds and facilities with the deluxe resorts at the same location.
Because they are located adjacent to deluxe resorts, most of the home away from home resorts offer the same amenities as deluxe resorts. The two independent home away from home properties offer full service restaurants, themed pools with slides and hot tubs, well landscaped grounds, and a variety of recreational activities. Disney Vacation Club properties also offer some additional facilities such as a community room with games and DVD rentals.
Rooms at the home away from home resorts range from 365 square foot studios to 2100 square foot grand villas. Studios are similar to standard hotel rooms, but have a kitchenette with microwave, refrigerator, and coffee pot. Larger units feature in room laundry facilities, a fully equipped kitchen with dining table, whirlpool tubs in the bathroom, and separate sleeping and living areas. DVD players are also included in one bedroom and larger units.
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