Choosing the perfect resort for your Walt Disney World® Resort vacation is an important decision, as it can greatly influence the overall experience. Each of Disney’s Moderate Resorts offers a unique blend of theming, amenities, and conveniences, catering to a wide range of preferences and needs.
Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant cultural immersion at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, the tropical escape of Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, the romantic charm of Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter, or the Southern elegance of Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside, each resort brings something special to the table.
In this guide, we’ll explore the pros and cons of each moderate resort to help you decide which one best aligns with your vacation goals.
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort: A Fusion of Culture and Modern Comfort
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is a vibrant celebration of Spanish, Mexican, and Southwestern American influences, offering a unique blend of cultural flair and modern luxury.
Nestled along the shores of Lago Dorado, this resort stands out as a picturesque lakeside retreat, infused with both classic charm and contemporary amenities that appeal to both families and business travelers alike.
As Walt Disney World Resort’s largest convention hotel, Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is uniquely positioned to cater to guests who seek a blend of work and play. The Gran Destino Tower, which opened in 2019, serves as the main entrance to the resort and adds a touch of grandeur with its sleek design inspired by Salvador Dalí and Spanish surrealism. The tower features 545 rooms, including 50 suites, and offers state-of-the-art amenities that elevate the resort to a level that rivals Disney’s deluxe accommodations—yet with a more affordable price tag.
The resort’s expansive 2,385 guest rooms are scattered across three distinct villages—Casitas, Ranchos, and Cabanas—all of which surround the 22-acre Lago Dorado. These villages are designed with rustic stucco buildings, Mexican-style bungalows, and Spanish terracotta roofs, evoking the romantic spirit of Spanish-colonial Mexico.
One of the standout features of Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is its extensive dining options. From rooftop restaurants that offer stunning views to casual poolside bars, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
The resort is also home to a wide array of recreational activities. The Dig Site, a Mayan-themed pool complex, is a favorite among families. It boasts a 123-foot waterslide, the largest hot tub at Walt Disney World Resort, an arcade, and a playground designed to look like an archaeological dig site.
For those looking to stay active, Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is the only moderate Disney resort with a full fitness center—and it has two, along with a jogging path that circles the scenic lake.
However, the resort’s status as a convention hotel can be a double-edged sword. While it means that the amenities are top-notch, some guests might find the atmosphere a bit more business-like, which could detract from the vacation vibe. Additionally, the resort’s sprawling layout means that getting from one end to the other might require a bit of a walk, which could be a drawback for those who prefer a more compact resort experience.
Also, it’s important to note that Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort isn’t adjacent to any of the Walt Disney World Resort Theme Parks, so transportation is limited to buses or personal vehicles—there are no monorails or boats available.
Pros:
- Wide range of dining options
- Modern, luxurious amenities, especially in Gran Destino Tower
- Extensive recreational facilities, including the Dig Site pool complex
- Only moderate resort with fitness centers
- Beautiful lakeside setting with culturally rich theming
Cons:
- Can feel more business-oriented due to convention guests
- Resort is spread out, requiring longer walks
- Not adjacent to any theme parks; relies on bus transportation
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort: A Tropical Getaway in the Heart of Disney
Step into a world where the rhythms of Calypso and the vibrant hues of the Caribbean wash over you, setting the stage for a truly relaxing escape at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort.
With its lush landscapes and vivid colors, this resort immerses guests in the laid-back charm of the islands, inspired by five distinct regions: Barbados, Jamaica, Martinique, Trinidad, and Aruba. From colonial forts and lively markets to pristine beaches and swaying hammocks, every corner of this resort is designed to capture the essence of the Caribbean.
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort is one of Walt Disney World Resort’s moderate accommodations, but it’s perhaps best known as the central hub for the Disney Skyliner gondola system. This sprawling resort covers a vast area, so be prepared for a bit of walking, as the farthest rooms can be up to a 12-minute stroll from the resort’s central hub, Old Port Royale.
The resort is divided into six “villages”—Old Port Royale, Martinique, Barbados, Trinidad, Aruba, and Jamaica—with Old Port Royale serving as the bustling heart of the resort. Here, you’ll find the main lobby, the feature pool, a variety of dining options, and the resort’s general store. The other villages primarily house guest rooms, each with its quiet pool and a small beach area (although swimming is not permitted in the lake).
Dining at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort is a highlight, with options ranging from quick bites at Centertown Market to sit-down meals at Sebastian’s Bistro, where Caribbean flavors shine in family-style dinners. Don’t miss the Spyglass Grill, a hidden gem offering casual meals with views of the lake, or the Banana Cabana poolside bar for delicious drinks and snacks.
The Fuentes del Morro Pool is a lively spot that draws in families with its two water slides, water cannons, and a shipwreck-themed play area. The resort also offers a variety of recreational activities, including boat and bike rentals at the marina, playgrounds, volleyball courts, and more.
One of the biggest advantages of staying at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort is its direct access to the Disney Skyliner. With two Skyliner stations, you can easily glide over to Disney’s Hollywood Studios®, EPCOT®, and nearby resorts like Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Pop Century Resort, and Disney’s Riviera Resort.
However, bus transportation is the only option for getting to Magic Kingdom® Park and Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park, so be sure to factor in extra time for the internal bus loops that service the resort’s many sections.
It’s important to note that the resort’s sprawling layout and lack of elevators in the two-story buildings could be a challenge for guests with mobility concerns or those traveling with strollers. While a first-floor room can be requested, this is not guaranteed, making this a risky choice for those with mobility concerns or strollers.
Rooms at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort are bright and cheerful, with standard features like two queen beds or a king bed, and some rooms include a fifth sleeper that’s perfect for a small child. The Trinidad section also offers “Under the Sea”-themed rooms with delightful Little Mermaid touches.
Pros:
- Direct access to the Disney Skyliner for convenient transportation
- Within walking distance of Disney’s Riviera Resort, so you can utilize their dining options as well
- Beautiful, expansive grounds with lush Caribbean theming
- Family-friendly pool area with water slides and a play zone
- Scenic walking and jogging paths around Barefoot Bay
Cons:
- Large, spread-out resort layout requires significant walking
- Bus transportation is needed for some parks, with potential for longer waits
- No elevators in two-story buildings, which may be challenging for some guests
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter: A Charming Slice of New Orleans
Step into the charm and romance of the Big Easy at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter, where the vibrant spirit of New Orleans comes alive in the heart of Walt Disney World Resort. This resort captures the essence of the city, offering guests a picturesque and serene escape reminiscent of historic New Orleans at the turn of the 20th century.
Imagine strolling down quaint promenades lined with gas streetlamps, passing by charming fountains, and taking in the colorful buildings adorned with wrought-iron balconies. Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter’s intimate atmosphere makes it feel like you’ve been transported to a romanticized version of New Orleans, isolated from the hustle and bustle of the theme parks.
What sets French Quarter apart from other Moderate Resorts is its compact size. Unlike the sprawling layouts typical of Disney’s Moderate accommodations, this resort offers a smaller footprint with fewer rooms, making it easier to navigate and more tranquil. While the rooms measure slightly over 300 square feet, they provide everything a family of three or four needs for a comfortable stay.
Guests can enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the Sassagoula River to the nearby Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside and Disney Springs®, giving you access to even more amenities. Although Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter lacks the Skyliner, monorail, or non-bus transportation options found at some other Disney resorts, the bus service at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter is efficient, with no internal stops. However, it may become less convenient during off-season times if the service is shared with Riverside.
For dining, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter offers Sassagoula Floatworks & Food Factory as its main food hall. While there is no table service restaurant at the resort, the food hall serves up a variety of options, including burgers, pizza, pasta, and New Orleans-inspired specialties like po’ boy sandwiches, jambalaya, and the ever-popular beignets.
On select nights, you can also enjoy live jazz music at Scat Cat’s Cafe – Lounge, which offers a selection of drinks and small bites, including more of those famous beignets.
The resort’s main pool, Doubloon Lagoon, is a fun and lively area featuring a giant sea serpent, with Neptune perched atop, encircling the pool. The serpent’s tongue doubles as a waterslide, making it a hit with kids and families.
Pros:
- Compact size makes it easy to navigate and offers a peaceful atmosphere
- Beautiful theming that captures the essence of historic New Orleans
- Unique experiences like horse-drawn carriage rides and live jazz music
- Access to Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside amenities via a scenic boat ride
- Efficient bus service with no internal stops
Cons:
- No Skyliner, monorail, or non-bus transportation to the parks
- Lacks a table service restaurant and character dining options
- Bus service may be less efficient during off-season if shared with Riverside
- Rooms are on the smaller side compared to other Disney Moderate resorts
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside: A Charming Southern Retreat
Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of the Louisiana Bayou at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside, one half of the Port Orleans duo (the other being Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter).
This resort perfectly captures the essence of the South, offering a tranquil and scenic getaway that feels miles away from the hustle and bustle of the theme parks. Guests staying at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside also have access to the amenities of both resorts, providing even more options for dining, recreation, and relaxation.
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside is divided into two distinct areas: Alligator Bayou and Magnolia Bend. Alligator Bayou features rustic accommodations set amidst lush, untamed wilderness, while Magnolia Bend is home to stately mansions surrounded by perfectly manicured gardens. The contrast between these two sections adds a unique charm to the resort, allowing guests to choose between a more rugged or refined experience. Each building within these sections is carefully designed to reflect its location along the Sassagoula River, adding to the immersive theming.
The resort’s main lobby, with its charming steamship theming, serves as the perfect bridge between the rugged Bayou and the elegant mansions. Outside, guests can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including boat and bike rentals. Inside, you’ll find an array of dining and shopping options to suit every taste.
For dining, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside offers Boatwright’s, the resort’s only table service restaurant, located just steps from the lobby. While it may not offer character dining or the extensive options found at other resorts, it’s a cozy and convenient choice for guests looking to enjoy a sit-down meal without leaving the property.
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside offers several pools, with the main pool located on ‘Ol Man Island in the center of the resort. This large pool complex, complete with a playground, is a favorite among families, although some guests might find the theming a bit underwhelming compared to other Disney resorts.
For families with princess-obsessed children, the Royal Guest Rooms at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside are a delightful option. These rooms are inspired by Disney characters and feature “royal” touches such as custom drapes, ornate beds, and glittering fiber optic “fireworks” in the headboards. The rooms provide a perfect blend of classic Disney magic and immersive theming, making them an ideal choice for families looking for a special experience.
The rooms in the Alligator Bayou section are well-suited for larger families, offering two queen beds and a fold-down twin bed, known as the 5th sleeper. These rooms are designed with rustic charm, featuring wooden accents and earthy tones that evoke the feel of the bayou. The fold-down bed is adorned with playful artwork, adding a touch of Disney magic for the youngest guests. This section of the Resort does not have elevators, though the buildings are only two floors.
It’s important to note that Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside is one of the few Walt Disney World Resorts that relies solely on bus transportation to reach all the theme parks. While this may be a downside for some, the resort’s location on the Sassagoula River offers a more scenic and relaxing transportation option: a leisurely boat ride to Disney Springs. This boat ride is a highlight in itself, providing picturesque views and a peaceful journey to one of Disney’s most vibrant dining, shopping, and entertainment districts.
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside’s large size means there are four bus stops throughout the resort, which can be convenient but also means longer waits and travel times, especially during peak hours. The sprawling layout also requires a fair amount of walking, which could be challenging for families with small children or guests with mobility issues.
Despite its size, the resort’s peaceful and romantic atmosphere is a significant draw, particularly for adults seeking a more grown-up Disney experience. Unlike some of the more bustling resorts, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside offers a sense of tranquility, with beautiful views and plenty of nature to enjoy. However, this sense of seclusion comes at the cost of not having direct transportation to the parks via the Skyliner or monorail.
Pros:
- Beautifully themed to the Louisiana Bayou, offering both rustic and refined accommodation options
- Access to amenities at both Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside and Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
- Scenic boat transportation to Disney Springs
- Spacious grounds with peaceful, quiet areas
- Royal Guest Rooms with enchanting Disney theming for families
Cons:
- Solely reliant on bus transportation to all theme parks
- Sprawling layout requires considerable walking
- Longer wait times for buses during peak hours
- No elevators in the Alligator Bayou section
- Limited dining options compared to other Disney resorts
- Some may find the main pool theming underwhelming
When it comes to choosing the right Moderate Resort at Walt Disney World Resort, it ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and what kind of experience you’re looking for.
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is ideal for those seeking a blend of business and leisure with modern comforts, while Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort offers a lively tropical vibe with the added convenience of Skyliner access. If you prefer a more intimate and tranquil setting, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter might be your perfect match, whereas Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside appeals to those who appreciate Southern charm and a more laid-back atmosphere.
Each resort has its own strengths and considerations, ensuring that no matter which you choose, your Disney vacation will be a memorable one. Trying to determine the perfect resort for your family? Send me an email. I’d be happy to provide customized suggestions!
