Deciding on where to stay during your Walt Disney World vacation in Orlando can be quite mind-boggling. We suggest starting with your preferred budget — and even if you are choosing a deluxe hotel, we know that getting the most out of your vacation dollars is still important.

When it comes time to help out our readers, we often reach out to those of you that have “been there, done that.” We were able to pull together a ranking of the nine deluxe resorts at Walt Disney World by using your input and some great information from our friends over at AllEars.Net.

Just in time to plan your next vacation, we’re sharing the ranking of the Disney World Deluxe Resorts, so you can choose the best Disney World hotel for your family. 

To keep the deluxe resort ranking objective, we scored each hotel by six important factors: transportation, location, dining options, value for your money, the swanky factor, and general reader ranking.

Scores were tallied from 1 to 10 (10 being the best) in each category and then totaled for an overall score. For this Disney World Deluxe Resort List and Ranking, we didn’t include the 13 villa options — just the hotels with regular hotel rooms.

So now that we’ve gone over the scoring, let’s get right to our list! Is that a drum beat, I hear?! Maybe so, because we are headed to the African savanna!

9. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge wows guests around every corner. From gorgeous earth tones to exotic decor, this hotel evokes the heart of Africa. And photos don’t do it justice.

You have to be there to truly capture the sights, sounds, and yes, smells of this imaginative place designed by Peter Dominick (who also impressed us with the Wilderness Lodge!).

Transportation — 4/10

A downside to staying at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is the lack of transportation options. You will need to take a Disney World bus to all other locations on property. Buses are often mind-numbingly slow and can take a considerable chunk of time out of your Disney touring day.

Proximity — 5/10

If you’ll be touring Disney’s Animal Kingdom, then this resort is a great option. Just be aware that it’s a considerable distance to the other theme parks at Walt Disney World. And at the end of a long park day, having to stand on a long bus ride back to your resort can be uncomfortable and possibly even, annoying.

Still, the moment you step back inside this spectacular resort, those worries should melt away!

Dining — 9/10

This resort has A LOT to boast about, and it certainly has some of the best dining on Disney World property — like Boma, The Mara, Sanaa, and Jiko. These restaurants serve up delectable, African-inspired cuisine, consistently receiving rave reviews.

Value — 6/10

While Animal Kingdom Lodge rooms have an expensive price tag, it’s the least expensive of the deluxe resorts (closely tied with Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort).

If you want that deluxe feel at a more reasonable rate, Animal Kingdom Lodge delivers a beautiful pool area, fun activities, nice rooms, and more. If you can splurge on a savanna view room, you’ll never forget the experience of watching the majestic animals from your balcony.

Swanky Factor — 8/10

When you stay at Animal Kingdom Lodge, you’ll have the opportunity to book a room with views of this resort’s four savannas. Since an estimated 200 animals live on this animal reserve, you never know what you’ll spot (zebra! giraffe!) when you wander the public viewing areas.

With nearly 400 pieces of African art, a dazzling pool, a restorative spa, hand-carved furniture and decor, and upscale dining, Animal Kingdom Lodge certainly feels luxurious.

Reader Rank — 9/10

With a reader rank of 9 out of 10, we’re left with a total score of 38 points for this resort!

Click here to see more of Animal Kingdom Lodge!

8. Disney’s BoardWalk Inn

Disney’s BoardWalk Inn blends turn-of-the-century charm with whimsical amusement park decor.

You’ll stare in awe at the gorgeous chandeliers and furnishings inside the lobby, while the beachy colors also catch your eye.

Transportation — 8/10

When you can walk or boat to TWO theme parks (EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios), you’ve found a very convenient location for your Walt Disney World adventure! Plus, the Skyliner is nearby!

Walking from EPCOT’s international gateway back to the hotel, especially after the evening fireworks is a fantastic perk! It’s a wonderful time-saver as you miss the crowds headed to the buses and monorail.

Proximity — 9/10

The EPCOT resort area is truly one of the most convenient locations on the property. You have access to the Skyliner, several hotels for dining, and you can walk or boat to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

If you plan your itinerary accordingly, you can even take the monorail when you park hop over to the Magic Kingdom!

Dining — 8/10

While the BoardWalk offers a variety of dining options, you’ll also have easy access to the restaurants in EPCOT!

Plus, you can walk or boat to the Yacht Club, Beach Club, WDW Swan and Dolphin, Swan Reserve, or even Disney’s Hollywood Studios to dine at any of their restaurants. And a lot of new dining is coming to the BoardWalk as well. You can read all about the NEW dining options here!

Value — 4/10

Location garners a huge price tag, thus a stay at the BoardWalk Inn can be costly. However, if your vacation itinerary doesn’t include a lot of time at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and/or EPCOT, then there are probably other resorts that fit better into your Disney World plans.

The hotel itself — including the lobby, lounge, and guest rooms — are being “reinvigorated” with some “light and airy touches.”

We will have to revisit the value of this resort once the renovations have been completed.

Swanky Factor — 6/10

As a deluxe resort, BoardWalk Inn doesn’t feel stuffy at all due to the charming, seaside decor. This resort is a wonderful place to unwind!

With concierge suites, conference facilities, and an assortment of dining options, this waterfront retreat on Crescent Lake is themed with the elegance of a bygone era.

Reader Rank — 8/10

With a reader rank of 8 out of 10, we’re left with a total score of 43 points for this resort!

FIRST LOOK at the New Rooms Inside Disney’s BoardWalk Inn!

7. Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

Stepping into Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, you’ll wonder if you’ve escaped to a National Park Lodge in the American Northwest. Sitting on the shores of Bay Lake in Walt Disney World, this hotel celebrates nature with a woodsy atmosphere surrounded by majestic pine trees. Make sure to check out the bubbling hot spring that is featured in the lobby.

Outside, Silver Creek Falls, a dazzling pool, and an erupting geyser add to the natural beauty of this Disney World resort.

Transportation — 6/10

Transportation is via bus to all theme parks; however, you can take a boat to Magic Kingdom.

Proximity — 7/10

Guests love the secluded atmosphere away from the bustling theme parks, yet Wilderness Lodge is convenient to the Magic Kingdom. Since many visitors to Walt Disney World spend more than one day at the MK, this location can work well with a busy touring plan.

You’ll need to take a bus to all other locations at Walt Disney World. However, it is possible to take a boat to the Magic Kingdom, then a monorail to EPCOT.

Dining — 8/10

Wilderness Lodge offers various dining options, including Whispering Canyon Cafe, Geyser Point Bar and Grill, and Roaring Fork. Plus, Storybook Dining at Artist Point is a memorable, character meal featuring the Snow White, The Evil Queen, Dopey, and Grumpy.

We also love the cozy Territory Lounge for specialty cocktails and unique menu items — it’s one of our favorite places to hang-out! Looking for more restaurants? Simply boat over to the Contemporary Resort!

Value — 6/10

As mentioned above, this resort does tie with Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge for least expensive of the deluxe hotels.

You’ll spend a good chunk of change here, but it won’t empty your wallet as much as the other resorts in the deluxe category.

Swanky Factor — 8/10

While this resort looks rustic, it also exudes comfort and luxury. From the splendor of the lobby to the beauty of the landscaping, a stay at Wilderness Lodge is awe-inspiring.

And like the other deluxe resorts, you’ll have plenty of upscale amenities such as luggage assistance and valet parking.

Reader Rank — 8/10

With a reader rank of 8 out of 10, we’re left with a total score of 43 points for this resort!

To see more of Wilderness Lodge, click here!

6. Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

If you love waterside adventure, then Disney’s Yacht Club Resort is the right pick for you! We love the nautical decor throughout the resort. Inside the lobby, Yacht Club shows off the quiet elegance that might be found in a New England sailing club.

Situated on Crescent Lake across from the BoardWalk Inn, this hotel shares a massive pool complex with Disney’s Beach Club. Stormalong Bay showcases a lazy river, hot tubs, waterslide, and even a sandy-bottomed swimming pool.

Transportation — 8/10

As with the other hotels in this area, Yacht Club is within walking distance of EPCOT’s international gateway as well as the Skyliner transportation system. Walk or boat to Disney’s Hollywood Studios — the choice is yours!

Proximity — 9/10

The EPCOT deluxe hotels score high in the proximity category and Yacht Club is no exception. As mentioned, you can easily walk or boat to Disney’s Hollywood Studios and EPCOT.

And when you’re planning your next snack or meal, you can utilize the restaurants at the nearby hotels and theme parks for additional dining options.

Dining — 8/10

There are some great restaurants right at the Yacht Club! There are two table-service restaurants — the Yachtsman Steakhouse, which serves up top-of-the-line steaks and the Ale and Compass, highlighting steaks and seafood.

Another great place for a snack and refreshing beverage is the Crew’s Cup Lounge.

Value — 4/10

As one of the most expensive resorts at Walt Disney World, this resort scores very low on value. It’s hard not to feel some sticker shock when you price out this hotel.

With such a high cost, many guests expect more luxurious accommodations.

Swanky Factor — 7/10

But is it swanky? Well, for a Disney resort it does offer some stellar amenities such as the restaurants and lounge. And Yacht Club certainly has bragging rights when it comes to Stormalong Bay!

Inside this resort, you may find a “stuffier” vibe compared to the more laidback atmosphere at the adjacent Beach Club Resort. This hotel is popular for conferences, so you’ll see more people dressed in business attire. Even so, your family will not feel out of place as you wander around in your park attire. This is still Disney World, after all.

Reader Rank — 8/10

With a reader rank of 8 out of 10, we’re left with a total score of 44 points for this resort!

Click here to see more of the Yacht Club!

5. Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resorts

Next up — more EPCOT-area hotels! The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resorts are not owned by Disney.

But guests at these hotels can take advantage of many of the same perks at those Disney-owned hotels, like free transportation to and from the park and Early Theme Park Entry.

Transportation — 8/10

There are buses to take guests to Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Animal Kingdom, or you can hop on a boat to visit EPCOT or Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

As these are EPCOT-area resorts, that park is only about a 15-minute walk from the hotels, so you can easily stroll over to enter through the International Gateway.

Plus, that means the Skyliner stop is also only a 15-minute walk away, which provides easy access to Disney’s Hollywood Studios and several other Disney hotels.

Proximity — 9/10

Being so close to EPCOT, the Skyliner, and several other hotels that also have great amenities, Swan and Dolphin earned a very high score for proximity.

Dining — 7/10

There are a LOT of restaurants between the Swan, Dolphin, and Swan Reserve hotels. Walt Disney World Dolphin Resort Restaurants include the award-winning bluezoo.

Due to the amazing variety of restaurants, we had to give these hotels a high score for dining.

Value — 8/10

While these hotels aren’t owned by Disney, they are situated in a prime location within Walt Disney World. A big perk of staying at one of these hotels is the cheaper room rates when compared to Disney-owned deluxe resorts.

What else adds to their value? Well, you still get access to some Disney perks such as Extended Evening Hours.

When you add up the restaurants, proximity to two theme parks, and general upscale ambiance of these resorts, you get an amazing value ON Disney World property.

Swanky Factor — 6/10

While the Swan and Dolphin resorts lack Disney theming, the rooms and public areas are modern. However, due to the lack of Disney’s unique touch, we docked some points in this category.

However, the restaurants such as the chic bluezoo helps boost the score. Plus, Shula’s Steak House emphasizes indulgence with large portions and generous custom center cuts of steak.

While they lack theming, these deluxe hotels have a lot to offer.

Reader Rank — 7/10

With a reader rank of 7 out of 10, we’re left with a total score of 45 points for our winner!

Take a FULL TOUR Of the New Swan Reserve Hotel

4. Disney’s Beach Club Resort

Disney’s Beach Club Resort is right next door to Disney’s Yacht Club.

And this hotel will also be undergoing some renovations.

Transportation — 8/10

This is the closest resort to the EPCOT Skyliner station and like the other two EPCOT resort area hotels, you also have access to the Friendship Boats to get to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Proximity — 10/10

A perfect proximity score earned because it’s just over 100 steps (yes, we counted!) from the resort to EPCOT! Enjoy a leisurely breakfast with Minnie at the Cape May Cafe, then take a nice stroll over to EPCOT.

And Disney’s Hollywood Studios is easily accessible (boat! walk! Skyliner!) from this location as well.

Dining — 8/10

It’s also the home to the table service restaurant, Beaches and Cream — a diner-like setting with some incredible ice cream sundaes and imaginative milkshakes.

You’ll also find Cape May Cafe — an all-you-care-to-enjoy menu that serves up surf-and-turf options at dinner, as well as the Minnie’s Breakfast Bash for your morning meal.

Value — 5/10

Like Yacht Club, Beach Club’s room rates are quite steep. Still, this is a fan-favorite resort, and we completely understand why!

Swanky Factor — 7/10

Disney’s Beach Club has a casual, beachside atmosphere and we highly recommend sitting for a spell in one of the outdoor swings. 

Kick back and feel the sand between your toes!

Reader Rank — 8/10

With a reader rank of 8 out of 10, we’re left with a total score of 46 points for this resort!

Click here to see more of the Beach Club!

3. Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

We’ve made it to the top three! When you shell out big moolah for a room at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, you’ll get a hotel with amazing themeing, delicious dining, and convenient transportation.

Yes, this is the place where Cast Members greet you with a warm “Aloha”, tiki torches light paths at night, and the store sells delicious Hawaiian chocolates.

Transportation — 8/10

How will you get to the Magic Kingdom? Choose from the monorail, a boat, or a bus. The monorail is also available to ride to EPCOT.

Proximity — 9/10

Polynesian Village is within close proximity to Magic Kingdom, so you’ll be able to watch the fireworks from several areas around the resort — including the ‘Ohana restaurant.

You can also see the Electric Water Pageant make its way across Seven Seas Lagoon at the end of the night. And you won’t have to venture far for your choice of restaurants at any of the monorail resorts.

Dining — 9/10

The Polynesian is also home to ‘Ohana and Trader Sam’s — which are very popular dining spots. ‘Ohana is a signature dining location with a prix-fixe menu of Polynesian flavors, featuring grilled teriyaki beef, peel and eat shrimp, and — of course — those famous ‘Ohana Noodles.

Trader Sam’s is an interactive bar that fills up pretty quickly! We advise arriving 30 minutes prior to the bar’s stated opening time to put your name on a waiting list.

We can’t forget to mention that Dole Whip is on the menu at Pineapple Lanai!

Value — 5/10

Ouch. While these top three hotels are Disney fan favorites, they are super pricey. And while you are getting some fabulous amenities, you might find that your vacation budget doesn’t stretch quite this far.

If you decide to stay at Disney’s Polynesian Village, make sure to schedule in time at your resort. The price tag becomes more value-friendly when you actually spend some time enjoying the hotel’s activities.

Swanky Factor — 9/10

Polynesian Village rooms were recently reimagined with a Moana-inspired theme. You’ll discover a balance of classy island vibes with beloved Disney characters, so adults and children alike will enjoy the decor.

Reader Rank — 8/10

With a reader rank of 8 out of 10, we’re left with a total score of 48 points for this resort!

Full Tour: NEW ‘Moana’ Rooms at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

2. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa has earned second place on this list. It’s not surprising that this place is… well… grand!

While delivering modern day comforts, the Grand Floridian stuns with a spectacular lobby featuring an open-cage elevator. A piano player frequently entertains guests adding to the elegance. This resort transports you to the Victorian era.

Transportation — 9/10

This resort has the same transportation benefits as Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, meaning you can get to Magic Kingdom by complimentary transportation via monorail or boat — OR you can walk over to the park. Up to you! EPCOT is also just a monorail ride away, although you’ll have to transfer at the Transportation and Ticket Center.

Proximity — 10/10

Disney’s Grand Floridian is situated very close to the Magic Kingdom, thus the perfect score for proximity.

Dining — 8/10

Disney’s Grand Floridian has several dining options available, including a AAA 5-Diamond restaurant, Victoria and Albert’s.

Looking for a quick bite? Stop by Gasparilla Island Grill! Take your meal to an outdoor table for a wonderful view of Cinderella’s Castle!

Value — 4/10

If you are celebrating a special occasion, a stay at the Grand Floridian may be worth the splurge.

However, this GRAND resort is the most expensive hotel on Disney World property. You’ll pay handsomely for a room here. Consider a stay here if you plan on spending a lot of time at your resort. Take in all the resort’s amenities — swim, shop, and dine!

Swanky Factor — 10/10

Disney’s Grand Floridan exudes extravagance and romance. Many marriages have started next door at Disney’s Wedding pavilion and receptions frequently take place at the Grand Floridian’s conference center. Couples can even ride in Cinderella’s Glass Coach!

The hotel has a luxurious spa, salon, and health club. Two beautiful pools beckon guests to take a dip. Rose gardens add to the charm. Yes, a stay at this resort is memorable!

Reader Rank — 8/10

With a reader rank of 8 out of 10, we’re left with a total score of 49 points for this resort!

Want to see more of Grand Floridian? Click here!

1. Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Earning the number one spot in our ranking is Disney’s Contemporary Resort!

This hotel scores high for transportation, proximity, dining, and swankiness.

Transportation — 9/10

Just like the other monorail hotels, you’ll be able to easily ride over to the Magic Kingdom from here. In fact, the monorail system runs straight through the middle of this resort! It’s truly an impressive sight.

Proximity — 10/10

For those walking to the park, Contemporary is even CLOSER to Magic Kingdom than Grand Floridian.

The proximity to the Magic Kingdom is the greatest perk of this hotel.

Dining — 8/10

Contemporary has a relatively new restaurant with Steakhouse 71 — a casual steakhouse inspired by Disney World’s opening year.

California Grill, another signature restaurant that’s also a fan favorite is located on the 15th floor of the hotel and is one of the best dining locations to watch Magic Kingdom’s fireworks.

You can either enjoy them from the comfort of your table OR watch them out on the restaurant’s private observation deck. Either way, California Grill will pump the show’s music through the restaurant and dim the lights to enhance your viewing of the show.

Chef Mickey’s is another popular restaurant. Here, you can experience character dining and say hello to the Fab Five as they grace the dining area while sporting their super adorable chef outfits.

The Contemporary also has a quick service location, Contempo Cafe, with fresh selections and seasonal pastries in their bakery display case. AND, they’ve even got their own coffee shop on the first floor called Contemporary Grounds! So many options to choose from here!

Value — 5/10

A high-priced deluxe option this hotel isn’t for budget travelers or visitors who plan to spend most of their time in the parks. If you are looking for a splurge, book a theme park view room so that you can watch the nightly fireworks from your balcony.

Tip: The Garden Wing rooms have less expensive rates.

Swanky Factor — 9/10

The Contemporary is the best option for those who want an iconic Disney World experience. Along with Disney’s Polynesian Resort, the Contemporary was one of the first Disney World resorts, opening back on October 1, 1971.

Although the nostalgia surrounding this resort is one of the reasons why longtime Disney fans love it so much, some people find the theme to be a bit dated and the rooms to be bland. However, the Contemporary Resort has undergone some major renovations. Rooms are already updated to an Incredibles theme!

Reader Rank — 9/10

With a reader rank of 9 out of 10, we’re left with a total score of 50 points for our winner!

Click here to see more of the Contemporary!

Now that we’ve listed and ranked the DELUXE resorts at Walt Disney World, you can consider the best option for your family. Of course, this ranking doesn’t mean that you should only stay at the Contemporary Resort, nor that the value and moderate resorts aren’t worth your vacation dollars. Pick the resort that best fits your next trip to Disney World. The hotel that works best for you this year, might not for your next vacation. We recommend looking at your budget and itinerary before making your final Walt Disney World hotel selection.

Fans rank every deluxe resort in Disney World!

Which Disney World deluxe hotel is your favorite? Tell us in the comments!

The post Disney World Deluxe Resort List and Ranking first appeared on the disney food blog.