Your Guide to the Best Disney Moderate Resorts at Walt Disney World

When it comes to choosing a place to stay at Walt Disney World Resorts, you’ll find plenty of options, but Disney Moderate Resorts are often a sweet spot between budget and luxury. These resorts offer more space, themed experiences, and extra perks like more dining options and better amenities than Value Resorts, but without the high price tag of Deluxe Resorts. If you’re wondering which of the Disney Moderate Resorts would be the best fit for you, this blog post will break it down.

What Are Disney Moderate Resorts?

Before diving into the specifics of each resort, it’s helpful to understand what sets Disney Moderate Resorts apart from other options at Walt Disney World. These resorts offer a sweet spot between affordability and luxury, with comfortable accommodations, great amenities, and immersive themes. You’ll get more space and extra perks compared to the Value Resorts, but at a price that’s typically less than the Deluxe Resorts. It’s the perfect choice for families and couples looking for that middle ground.

Benefits of Staying at Disney Moderate Resorts

Staying at Disney Moderate Resorts means you’ll enjoy a variety of perks that help make your vacation even more enjoyable. These resorts typically offer larger rooms, a variety of dining options, and access to incredible recreational activities. Whether you’re unwinding by the pool or enjoying themed dining, Disney Moderate Resorts provide the ideal blend of comfort and fun. Plus, you get the benefits of staying at a Disney resort!

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Comparing the Disney Moderate Resorts

When choosing between Disney Moderate Resorts, it’s important to consider the unique theming and amenities each one offers. Whether you’re drawn to the tropical paradise of Caribbean Beach Resort, the New Orleans charm of Port Orleans Riverside and Port Orleans French Quarter, or the modern luxury of Coronado Springs, there’s a resort to fit every taste and vacation style. Let’s break down these options and find the perfect match for you!

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Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort

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.

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 other 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 everyone. Dahlia Lounge, located on the rooftop of the Gran Destino Tower, offers a refined setting for cocktails, while Three Bridges Bar & Grill offers casual dining with scenic water views. There’s also a fun Rix Sports Bar & Grill for anyone looking to catch a game or enjoy a relaxed evening out.

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 also has 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.

Coronado Springs Pros

• Wide range of dining options
• Modern, luxurious amenities, especially in Gran Destino Tower
• Only moderate resort with Club Level (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

Coronado Springs Cons

• Can feel more business-oriented due to convention guests
• Resort is spread out, requiring longer walks from some buildings
• Not adjacent to any theme parks; relies on bus transportation

Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

Step into a world where the rhythms of Calypso and the vibrant hues of the Caribbean set you up for a relaxing escape at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort. With its lush landscapes and bright colors, this resort immerses guests in the laid-back charm of the islands. Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort is one of the Disney Moderate Resorts, but it’s perhaps best known as the central hub for the Disney Skyliner gondola system.

The resort is divided into six “villages”—Old Port Royale, Martinique, Barbados, Trinidad, Aruba, and Jamaica—with Old Port Royale serving as the 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 their own quiet pool. 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 main building, Old Port Royale.

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. 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 Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and nearby resorts like Art of Animation, Pop Century, and the Riviera resort.

However, bus transportation is the only option for getting to Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom, 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.

Caribbean Beach 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

Caribbean Beach Cons

• Large, spread-out resort layout that may require 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

Step into the charm 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. 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 Resorts, this option 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.

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 other 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 Mickey shaped beignets. On select nights, you can also enjoy live jazz music at Scat Cat’s Cafe, 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.

Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter 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 live jazz music and Mickey beignets
• Access to Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside amenities via a scenic boat ride or walk
• Scenic boat ride over to Disney Springs for additional dining, shopping, and entertainment outside of the theme parks
• Efficient bus service with no internal stops

Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter 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

Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of the Louisiana Bayou at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside, the other half of the Port Orleans duo. 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 accommodations set amidst lush wilderness, while Magnolia Bend is home to stately “mansions” surrounded by perfectly manicured gardens. 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. For dining, Riverside offers a mix of quick-service and sit-down options. The Riverside Mill Food Court is also available and offers casual meals with a Southern twist.

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. However, this section of the Resort does not have elevators, though the buildings are only two floors.

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside is one of the 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 does offer a more scenic and relaxing transportation option: a leisurely boat ride to Disney Springs.

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 draw. 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.

Port Orleans Resort – Riverside Pros

• Beautifully themed to the Louisiana Bayou
• 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
• Unique resort activities, like horse-drawn carriage rides
• Royal Guest Rooms with enchanting Disney theming for families

Port Orleans Resort – Riverside Cons

• Solely reliant on bus transportation to all theme parks
• Sprawling layout may require 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

Which of the Disney Moderate Resorts is the Right Fit for You?

Choosing between Coronado Springs, Caribbean Beach Resort, and Port Orleans Resorts ultimately comes down to your personal preferences, vacation goals, and what kind of experience you’re looking for. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:

• Coronado Springs Resort: Perfect for adults or families who want a peaceful, upscale experience with modern amenities and plenty of dining options.
• Caribbean Beach Resort: Ideal for those seeking a tropical escape with great pool areas, Skyliner access, and easy access to the parks.
• Port Orleans Riverside: Best for guests who love Southern charm, a relaxing atmosphere, and lots of outdoor activities.
• Port Orleans French Quarter: Great for families who want a fun, vibrant, New Orleans-inspired experience at a smaller-sized resort with easy access to Disney Springs.

No matter which one of the Disney Moderate Resorts you choose, you’re in for a magical stay at Walt Disney World Resorts. Each one has its own unique offerings, from incredible dining to fantastic pools, making your vacation an unforgettable experience.

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Final Thoughts: The Best Disney Moderate Resorts for Your Vacation

Choosing between Disney Moderate Resorts is all about finding the right balance of price, amenities, and theming that works for your family’s needs. Whether you opt for the lively atmosphere of Port Orleans, the tropical vibes of Caribbean Beach Resort, or the upscale elegance of Coronado Springs, each resort provides a unique experience that makes your Walt Disney World vacation even more magical.

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