If you’re here, it’s because you’re already making smart Disney planning moves. You’ve zeroed in on the moderate tier resorts: the sweet spot between budget-friendly and full-blown luxury. With fun theming, great amenities, and solid comfort, moderate resorts can offer the best of both worlds without the Deluxe-tier price tag.
But there’s a catch. Not all moderate resorts are created equal.
Some have huge, sprawling layouts that have you putting in those steps before you even get to the parks, while others offer better food or pool options. It might seem inconsequential, but factors like pool vibes, walkability, bus routes, and food options can seriously shape how your vacation feels.
For the money you’re paying to be at Disney, picking a moderate resort isn’t just about where you’ll sleep: it’s about how your day will flow from rope drop to park close.
That’s where we come in. We’ve stayed at every moderate resort multiple times (all in the name of research, of course), and we’re here to cut through the noise. We’ve ranked each resort based on real experience to help you narrow down your best choices.
Let’s get to it!
4. Port Orleans Riverside
This is our last pick for a moderate resort, but know this—it’s still a charming resort. It falls into last place for a few reasons:
- It’s sprawling and big. It can take a while to get around, and it’s easy to get lost.
- There are multiple bus stops, making the ride “home” from the parks tedious.
- The theming is charming and beautiful, but there isn’t anything too engaging or “Disney” for younger kids.
- Unfortunately, the food isn’t that exciting here.
We’ve still only stayed here twice, and both times were for research and to keep up with things. Otherwise, we’ve never chosen to stay here. But do know that the rooms are up to date and quite lovely.
If there’s a good deal or this is the only availability you can find, book it! It’s still a fine choice.
3. Port Orleans French Quarter
Some people would argue this one with us, but we’re pretty sure we could win 😉 New Orleans is one of our favorite cities in the entire world, so we love the charming theming here. Butttt, we don’t love this resort as far as value goes. Meaning we don’t think we’re getting as much as we should for the price Disney is asking. Let’s discuss.
Cons:
- Outdated. The main area is old, small, and doesn’t offer much. It’s just not that exciting.
- Lack of food choices. Yes, there are the delicious Mickey beignets, but we sadly can’t exist on just those.
- Overpriced compared to better choices at Values or other Moderate resorts.
- Distance-wise, this hotel is further away from most parks.
Pros:
- Charming theme
- Mickey beignets!
- Cool waterslide
- Just one bus stop
Hopefully, this gives you an idea of why we can’t get on the “this resort is so great!” bandwagon. We just think it is sort of lacking from the get-go compared to what you could get elsewhere with the same amount of money. Make sense?
2. Caribbean Beach*
*The asterisk is because the #1 and #2 spots flip-flop depending on your situation. If you have younger kids, consider Caribbean Beach as #1. For older kids/teens and adults, or major foodies, Coronado Springs is our #1 pick. You’ll see why as we dive into the pros and cons!
Cons:
- Sprawling and huge resort. Without a good room request (that actually gets met), you could be doing a lot of walking/wandering or waiting on buses.
- Outdated buildings. This is our personal, biggest con here. Unfortunately, we think most of the grounds look no better than a cheap Florida roadside motel.
- So. Many. Bus stops. Caribbean Beach has the highest number of bus stops of any resort, ringing in at EIGHT! Yeesh. The good news is that if you’re headed to two out of the four parks, you’ve got the Skyliner to ease the sting. But if you’re heading to Magic Kingdom or Animal Kingdom, you’re going to be on the bus for a bit.
Pros:
- Home to an awesome pool and playground. If you’ve got younger kids, this and the Skyliner are a solid reason to choose this resort. The pool is a fun pirate-themed area, and there is a large playground nearby that younger kids will love.
- The Skyliner is a lot of fun as a transportation option, though be warned that early morning and late night crowds (re: EPCOT post-nighttime show) can result in long waits for the Skyliner. Hopefully, you’re reading our website tips and know how to get around the crowds (so no biggie there!).
- There is a solid variety of food choices here. You’ve got a great family-style AYCE restaurant (Sebastian’s Bistro), and a solid quick-service option in the main building. The pool bar, Banana Cabana, is also great. You can sit down and be served, or order quick service at the poolside (the decent adult beverage menu doesn’t hurt either).
- Walking distance to the Riviera Resort, which offers even more solid food options.
1. Coronado Springs*
*The asterisk is because the #1 and #2 spots flip-flop depending on your situation. If you have younger kids, consider Caribbean Beach as #1. For older kids/teens and adults, or major foodies, Coronado Springs is our #1 pick. You’ll see why as we dive into the pros and cons!
Coronado Springs earns our top spot in the moderate tier because it feels more like a deluxe resort masquerading as a moderate, especially with the dining options and the Gran Destino Tower.
However, no Disney resort is perfect, and this one is not exempt. Like others, it has sprawling grounds and multiple bus stops. Getting around can be a little confusing. We also tend to have more customer service issues here than at any other Disney resort… not sure why, but worth mentioning.
If you’re an adults-only party or focused on having nice food options, this is our #1.
Cons:
- Its sprawling size means a lot of walking, especially if you aren’t staying in Gran Destino Tower. A good room request is needed if you want convenience (and unfortunately, you can’t bank on that happening).
- Buses being the only transport option with four stops mean that the buses can get crowded, and it can take a while to get to the parks. Definitely tedious at times.
- Quick food options are lacking. The sit-down dining is excellent here, but fast, grab-and-go meals are surprisingly sparse for a resort this size. The food court options aren’t too exciting, and its location can make it a far walk depending on which building you’re in.
Pros:
- Some of the best value dining on property, as far as quality and price. Three Bridges Bar & Grill is phenomenal and affordable, Toledo is fancy but unpretentious, and Dahlia Lounge (and a few other more “secret” spots) are some of the coolest on property.
- The Spanish colonial theming, beautiful grounds, and the lake make for a truly stunning and relaxing ambiance. We feel like we’re at an actual resort in Mexico!
- The central location! Yes, you’re on buses, but CS is surprisingly pretty central, making many bus rides quick and easy.
Our Final Thoughts
Whether it makes it easier or trickier, there’s no one-size-fits-all winner when you’re picking a moderate resort. It all depends on your vibe and what matters most to you.
The good news? You’re shopping in the smartest tier as far as value and comfort. Wherever you land, you’ll find the perfect mix of Disney atmosphere and relaxation. And hey, if you see us at the pool bar doing “research,” come say hi!
If you liked this Disney resort breakdown, you’ll love how detailed our itineraries get. Especially if you want the best insider tips, expert strategies, and pro recommendations to help plan your next Disney trip!