🎉 Welcome to my Disney 101 for First-Timers series! If planning a Walt Disney World vacation feels overwhelming, you’re in the right place. This series walks you step by step through the basics—from where to start, to when to book, to choosing your resort, and more—so you’ll feel confident and excited instead of stressed.

Your Disney resort is more than just a place to sleep, it can completely shape your vacation experience. From convenience to amenities, picking the right resort sets the tone for your trip and can make your days smoother and more magical.

The Three Resort Categories

Disney resorts are grouped into three main categories:

Value Resorts – Budget-friendly, fun, and colorful with playful theming. Perfect for families looking to save money while still being immersed in the Disney magic.
Moderate Resorts – Offer a balance of price and amenities, with beautiful pools, larger rooms, and convenient dining options.
Deluxe Resorts – The ultimate Disney experience. Luxurious rooms, prime locations, and perks like walking distance or monorail access to the parks.

Factors to Consider

When choosing a resort, think about:

Budget – Decide what you’re comfortable spending and balance it against what you want from the experience.
Location & Transportation – Consider how far you’ll be from the parks and whether walking, bus, boat, or monorail access matters to your family.
Amenities – Pools, dining, recreation, and room size can all affect your trip enjoyment.
Special Needs or Preferences – Suites, accessibility options, or themed rooms can make a big difference.

When It’s Worth Upgrading

Upgrading to a Deluxe or Moderate resort can be worth it depending on your family’s needs and the type of trip you’re planning. If you’re celebrating a special occasion, like a birthday, anniversary, or milestone vacation, a resort with extra amenities and luxury touches can make the trip feel even more magical. Convenience is another big factor—if your trip is short, staying closer to the parks or on the monorail line can save you valuable time each day. Families who want the option of mid-day breaks or easy access to early park entry may also find that upgrading enhances the overall experience, making your vacation feel less rushed and more relaxing.

Insider Tips from a Local

As someone who lives near Disney World, I’ve learned a few tricks that can make your resort experience even better. Some resorts tend to be quieter during certain seasons, which can make a big difference if you prefer a more peaceful stay. For example, if you are traveling during the holiday season, some of the resorts like the Grand Floridian, Contemporary, and Beach Club resorts will have Gingerbread displays that attract a lot of additional visitors. This might actually be a better time of year to stay at one of the resorts off the beaten path if you are looking for something a little less chaotic.

Certain pools, dining spots, and even small resort activities are hidden gems that many guests overlook, but they can add a lot of fun to your trip. Having a local (aka me) as your Travel Consultant can give you guidance on these extras can help you enjoy perks and experiences that most visitors don’t even know about, giving your family a little extra magic throughout your stay.

Wrapping It Up

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer for resorts—the best choice is the one that fits your family’s needs.

👉 If you’re unsure where to start, I’ll help match your family to the perfect resort. Fill out my quote request form HERE and let’s find your home away from home at Disney!

✨ This post is part of my Disney 101 for First-Timers series. If all of this planning feels like a lot, that’s exactly why I help families book their trips! I’ll keep track of deadlines, reservations, and details—so you can focus on the fun. Ready to get started? Fill out my Quote Request Form HERE and let’s make your Disney vacation stress-free and magical.

✨ Disney 101 for First-Timers – Series Roadmap ✨

Follow the full series to plan your perfect Disney World vacation step by step!

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Part 1

Where to Start

Dates, budget, tickets, and dining basics to begin your Disney planning.

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Part 2

Planning Timeline

Month-by-month guide for booking your resort, tickets, dining, and Lightning Lane Multi-Pass.

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Part 3

Choosing a Resort

Tips to select the perfect resort for your family, including upgrades and insider advice.

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Part 4

Lightning Lane Tips

Maximize your park days with ride planning strategies.

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Part 5

First-Timer Mistakes

Avoid common pitfalls so your first Disney trip is smooth and magical.

🏰 Feeling overwhelmed? I help families plan Disney vacations stress-free. I handle all the details so you can focus on the fun! Fill out my client form here to get started.

Choosing the Right Resort for Your Family