These Disney Deluxe Resorts Set the Standard (Our Rankings + Considerations)

It’s no secret that the deluxe resorts are the most expensive resorts at Walt Disney World. But that doesn’t mean they’re not worth the high price tag. Deluxe hotels offer amenities and features that make for an unforgettable vacation.

Can you imagine waking up each morning to see Cinderella Castle in the distance? Or leaving your room and taking the elevator down a few floors to hop on the monorail? These kinds of luxuries are only available at Disney’s deluxe resorts.

Below, we’ve provided an overview of what makes a resort fall under the deluxe category. If you’re considering one of these resorts, you’ll want to weigh these conveniences and extra perks against the other categories of resorts, like value and moderates.

We also rank the best Disney deluxe resorts with considerations. We include construction updates and why we would choose some resorts over others based on recent experiences.

# 9 Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa

Disney’s Grand Floridian is not only iconic but also the crème de la crème of deluxe resorts. It’s also the most expensive resort at Walt Disney World.

Disney’s Grand Floridian has a Victorian flair that some consider formal. Thankfully, it’s never felt too stuffy. The last time we ranked the deluxe resorts, we put Grand Floridian last because of the resort’s extensive refurbishment that was taking place. At the time of this update, it looks like that project has neared completion. So we’ll take that into consideration the next time we rank the deluxe hotels. In past years, the Grand Floridian usually comes in at around number five on our list.

It’s no secret that the Grand Floridian offers excellent dining options. We highly recommend enjoying a couple of meals at the resort’s casual table service, Grand Floridian Cafe. For more formal dining, you might enjoy a signature restaurant. The resort has three, including one that received a star in Florida’s Michelin Guide. Those restaurant’s are: Narcoossee’s, Citricos, and Victoria and Albert’s (the one with the star).

#8 Disney’s Boardwalk Inn

Disney’s Boardwalk Inn is next on our list. If you’re looking for charm, you might consider this resort. The Boardwalk is a bit of a destination, with dining, entertainment, and some nightlife. The entire area is beautiful, themed after a turn-of-the-century New England seaside town. Guests who reserve rooms with a Boardwalk view can enjoy the hustle and bustle below. However, if you go to bed early, it could be a little noisy in the evening with the extra entertainment below.

Regarding dining, Disney’s Boardwalk has several excellent table service options, like Trattoria al Forno and Flying Fish. But, unfortunately, this hotel is lacking when it comes to quick-service dining. You’ll have access to the Boardwalk Deli, but the sandwiches are limited, and getting anything custom-made at this location has become difficult. Carousel Coffee has specialty coffee and treats in the morning, but they close early.

We love the Boardwalk because of its location. You can walk right into Epcot or take the boat if you like. You can also walk or boat to Disney’s Hollywood Studios from the resort.

The resort recently underwent an extensive refurbishment that resulted in new rooms, fresh paint, and more. We stayed in the Boardwalk’s new rooms and enjoyed the updates. They were a tremendous improvement. Our only real negative is the lack of quick service dining and the resort’s pool. While the feature pool has an incredibly fun theme, we often find it over-crowded. However, I consider it one of the most kid-friendly pools and resorts, in general.

#7 Disney’s Swan and Dolphin

Disney’s Swan, Dolphin, and the Swan Reserve are owned and operated by Marriott. However, they are unique because resort guests have the same privileges as deluxe guests. When you stay here you can rack up Marriott Bonvoy Points, take advantage of early theme park hours, and enjoy the extended theme park benefit that’s extended to other deluxe resorts.

Our favorite things about this trio of hotels are the shared Grotto Pool area, the stunning architecture you’ll either love or hate, and the incredible location with walkability to Epcot and Hollywood Studios. You’ll also find excellent signature dining locations like Shula’s Steakhouse and Il Mulino.

However, not everything works the same at these resorts. For instance, the buses to Animal Kingdom and Magic Kingdom drop off guests in the same area as other off-property hotels. At Animal Kingdom, this is a non-issue (you’ll be closer). But at Magic Kingdom, you’ll get dropped off at the Transportation and Ticket Center. From there, you’ll have to monorail or ferry to Magic Kingdom.

Additionally, since this hotel is independently owned and operated by Marriott, you’ll want to consider not-so-obvious charges like parking. These resorts will have resort fees, but those amounts are now included upfront due to recent legislation. So you will be aware of them. When comparing resorts, it’s important to note that Disney-owned-and-operated resort hotels do not charge for parking and do not have resort fees.

We’ve reviewed the Swan and Dolphin many times and have hardly any complaints about staying here. We’ve also stayed at the Swan Reserve and enjoyed the boutique layout of the hotel, along with its proximity to the other Epcot Resorts.

Related: Disney’s Swan Reserve Review

#6 Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Disney’s Contemporary Resort is the most classic of all the resorts surrounding the Magic Kingdom. It’s the one with the monorails running through it. But our favorite feature of this resort is often overlooked. The resort has a gorgeous backyard with loads of places to lounge and take in views of scenic Bay Lake.

Furthermore, dining options at this deluxe resort are outstanding. It’s hard to go wrong with options like California Grill and Steakhouse 71. The resort also has an excellent quick-service restaurant, Contempo Cafe. While you’re dining, you can watch the monorail come through.

On the flip side, some people do not like the Contemporary because they think it feels dated. Yes, the hotel has been updated, and we love the Incredibles-themed rooms. But those who enjoy more formal accommodations might not care for the sleek look and uniqueness of the Contemporary.

Lastly, walking to Magic Kingdom Park is hard to top. It’s a 10-minute walk from the Contemporary to the park’s main entrance. We love to stay here when we have plans to spend time at the most magical place on earth. Being able to quickly return to the room at the end of the night is especially nice. You can walk right past those long lines for the monorail, buses, and ferry. The convenience of this resort is a game-changer.

#5 Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

Technically, we could include Disney’s Yacht Club as our number two choice because it’s connected to Disney’s Beach Club. However, they are booked as separate resorts. So, I’m sticking it here in the middle. If you know you want to stay at either the Beach Club or the Yacht Club, it’s more of a preference for which style suits you best. Both resorts share amenities.

Disney’s Yacht Club is the more formal of the two resorts. You can expect nautical theming that references ships, sails, ropes, and knots. It has a regal look and feel. As far as dining goes, we have a few favorites. For starters, don’t sleep on Yachtsman Steakhouse. They have excellent steaks, and the onion rolls are too yummy. We also frequent Ale and Compass and Crew’s Cup Lounge.

Of course, the biggest deal of staying at the Yacht Club is Stormalong Bay. The resort’s swimming area features a sand bottom pool, lazy river, and pirate ship water slide. If you enjoy spending time at the pool, you’ll love this resort!

Related: Disney’s Yacht Club Review

#4 Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is one of our top five picks for the best Disney deluxe hotels. This resort offers a Pacific Northwest and National Parks vibe that makes it a relaxing retreat.

Between the stunning woodwork and scenic surroundings, you won’t feel like you’re visiting the busy theme parks (or even Florida)! It feels like they turn the temperature down the minute you step onto the resort’s boat dock. You’re also in for a real treat if you visit over the holidays. Wilderness Lodge is even more stunning when decked out with Christmas decorations.

However, if this isn’t your preferred resort, you can still plan a meal here if you have time. We love Geyser Point Bar and Grill for lunch or dinner. It’s hard to go wrong with any of the restaurants at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge.

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is the perfect deluxe resort for those wanting that “get away from it all” feeling. You’ll find plenty of nooks and crannies to read a good book or do a little people-watching throughout the hotel. Did I mention fireplaces were involved? (It is a chilly resort, so don’t forget a jacket!)

Related: Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Review

Another huge consideration for the Wilderness Lodge moving up in this year’s ranking is the return of the blue flag launch. After 3:00 p.m., guests can take an additional boat service from the Wilderness Lodge to Fort Wilderness Campground and Disney’s Contemporary Resort. This extra boat service makes accessing dining or touring the Magic Kingdom Resorts convenient.

#3 Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

Our number three deluxe resort promotes relaxation with a Hawaiian vibe. Disney’s Polynesian, an original 1971 resort, is a favorite for many. However, given its popularity, the resort’s pools are usually packed. Therefore, you probably won’t find a quiet spot at this resort’s pool. We never have, and it’s the main reason this resort sits at number three on our list.

Disney’s Polynesian underwent an entire resort refurbishment a few years back that brought touches of Moana to standard guest rooms. These are our favorite hotel rooms at Disney World. The design of these rooms was well-executed, and everything at the resort has a cohesive look and feel.

As far as restaurants go, the Polynesian has some wonderful options. Kona Cafe, the resort’s standard table service, offers Asian and American cuisine. ‘Ohana is exceptionally popular. For breakfast, they have a character meal. But for dinner, the restaurant transitions to offering a traditional Polynesian meal with meat skewers and tasty noodles.

During our latest stay, we enjoyed the King Kamehameha Club Level offerings. If you want to splurge on vacation, this option includes access to refreshments, snacks, and appetizers throughout the day.

Since the Polynesian sits across Seven Seas Lagoon from Magic Kingdom, guests can enjoy nightly fireworks from the resort’s white sand beaches. Music from the performance is streamed over a speaker system, adding to the ambiance of this unique viewing area.

Related: Disney’s Polynesian Resort Review

#2 Disney’s Beach Club Resort

If you’ve ever visited Resorts Gal, you know we’re big fans of Disney’s Beach Club Resort. However, we rank it as our second choice because our top pick has something extra you won’t find anywhere else.

Compared to the Yacht Club, Disney’s Beach Club Resort offers a more casual, seaside vibe. Expect soft colors like light blues and sea foam greens that accent beautiful pink French limestone floors.

Related: Disney’s Beach Club Review

Disney’s Beach Club sits across Crescent Lake from Disney’s Boardwalk and is adjacent to the Yacht Club. It’s a relaxing place to spend your Disney vacation. The main reason we love the resort is because of its proximity to Epcot. You can walk to Epcot from the resort’s back door in less than five minutes!

The resort also recently underwent an interior refurbishment. We stayed in the new rooms at Disney’s Beach Club to check out the updates.

The Beach Club is home to Cape May Cafe, which has a popular character breakfast in the morning and is a seafood restaurant in the evening. Characters are only present for Minnie’s Beach Bash at breakfast. We also enjoy Martha’s Vineyard, the resort’s lounge, and the additional options next door at the Yacht Club. Our main negative about the resort is a lack of decent quick-service options.

Of course, the other big perk of staying here is Stormalong Bay, the resort’s magnificent pool area. You also won’t want to miss Beaches and Cream, a restaurant near the pool that serves guilty pleasure ice cream treats and diner food.

#1 Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Regarding ranking the best deluxe resort, Animal Kingdom Lodge is almost always our number one choice. That may sound odd since the Beach Club is our favorite resort. But Animal Kingdom Lodge is an exceptional resort that has a way of transporting guests to another continent!

When you step inside Jambo House at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, you feel like you’ve entered a luxurious resort in Africa. I’m sure that many of us have never been to Africa and will likely never visit.

So, it’s fair to say that the Animal Kingdom Lodge offers a glimpse of what many consider a once-in-a-lifetime experience. If you dream of traveling to Africa, love animals, or only want a calming escape, this is the best deluxe hotel at Walt Disney World.

Savanna-view rooms allow guests to overlook animals grazing below from their balconies. So don’t be surprised to walk out on your balcony and find giraffes, zebras, and other animals grazing below. It’s one of the few resorts where we recommend upgrading your room view. Waking up to animals grazing outside your room is pretty surreal.

If you don’t opt for a room view upgrade, the resort has numerous viewing areas where guests can see the animals on the savanna. But there’s something extra special about waking up to a giraffe outside your room.

Related: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Review

If the animal factor wasn’t enough, the resort also has phenomenal dining options. First, Jambo House has Boma, the best breakfast in Disney World.

Jiko, The Cooking Place, is Jambo House’s signature dining restaurant. This restaurant is among the best fine dining locations at Disney World. At Kidani Village, Sanaa has a unique menu that includes a delicious bread service that could feed a small army.

After you stay at Animal Kingdom Lodge, we think you’ll find it difficult to compare to other deluxe resorts. This resort is an attraction in itself. So, plan plenty of time to relax, explore, and enjoy the resort during your stay.

Other Disney Deluxe Resort Perks

We hope you enjoyed our rankings of the best deluxe resorts at Disney World. Here are the key perks that are offered to deluxe resort guests:

• Guests of deluxe resorts are eligible for early theme park entry benefits. (We have a list of the early park benefits with attractions to help you plan.)
• Deluxe resort guests are eligible for extended evening hours on select evenings at select parks.
• Deluxe resorts offer multiple forms of transportation. The only exception is Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge.
• At every deluxe resort, you’ll find lounges, quick-service restaurants, pool bars, table-service restaurants, and signature dining.
• Every deluxe resort has a themed feature pool area and a secondary pool.
• Feature pools have water slides.
• Deluxe resorts offer club-level accommodations (a concierge floor with special privileges).
• All deluxe resorts offer interior room access.

For more benefits, check out our guide: The Benefits of Staying at a Disney Resort Hotel.

Important: At any given time a resort might undergo a refurbishment. We highly recommend checking our resort refurbishment calendar for updates while you’re planning. If a resort were to announce a refurbishment after you’ve booked it, you should receive some sort of notification from Disney ahead of time. In some cases, a refurbishment might not be a big deal. However, if the resort’s feature pool had a scheduled closure and you primarily booked the hotel because of its pools, you might want to rethink resorts.

Final Thoughts

Hopefully, these factors will help you decide which deluxe resort is right for you. While these resorts are expensive, they offer a few benefits that justify the price tag.

Now, if you want genuinely luxurious, there are a few nearby off-property resorts that you might like to consider. For starters, the Four Seasons is only minutes from Magic Kingdom. We also have a few other nearby high-end hotels; you might enjoy our Waldorf Astoria Orlando Review or, my favorite, the JW Marriott Bonnet Creek Review.

Try our list of the best off-property resorts near Disney World for other nearby options. We have a separate list of the best Marriott hotels near Disney World.

If you’re just getting started, make sure to check out our guide to planning a Walt Disney World vacation. It includes 10 simple steps that will help you get all the details straight from start to finish. You might also like to take our resort quiz. If you sign up for our email at the end of the quiz, you’ll receive a series of personalized emails with some of our best advice. You might also enjoy our step-by-step guide for creating a Disney vacation budget.

In the comments:

What are your thoughts on the deluxe resorts? Do you agree with our assessment of the best deluxe resorts at Disney World? Which one is your favorite?