Worth It or Not Worth It? Disney Deluxe Resorts
Selecting a Walt Disney World resort is a complicated decision. How long are you staying? How big is your party and what is your budget?
While it can be easy to pick the cheapest hotel, there are reasons to shop around. Depending on your needs or vacation style, the right hotel could make or break your trip.
Photo: Disney
Of course, the most lauded Disney hotels are the ones in the deluxe tier. Known for immaculate theming, top-notch amenities, and additional guest perks, it’s no wonder.
They’re so beloved, I know they encourage guests to purchase Disney Vacation Club Contracts.
Photo: DVC
But luxury comes at a cost. Authorized Disney Vacation Planners have been asked time and time again, “Are Disney deluxe resorts worth it?
In my opinion, the answer is … sometimes. (I’m sorry to disappoint anyone looking for a clear answer!)
Photo: Kent Phillips
Truthfully, it isn’t always an easy choice. Instead, let’s discuss the features of Deluxe Tier hotels and whether they warrant the out-of-pocket cost.
Deluxe Hotels Have Better Dining – Not Worth It
No foodie can deny this. Deluxe hotels have better food.
Not only are their quick-service restaurants generally better, but they also have lounges, bars, and Signature Dining for sit-down meals.
If you’re looking for incredible food steps from your hotel room, a Deluxe won’t disappoint.
However, I’m still in the camp of “not worth it”. This is mainly because anyone can eat/drink at Deluxe hotels, even people not staying on Disney property.
A short bus, Monorail, or Skyliner Gondola ride (with planning) can take you to any hotel. No room reservation required. (Speaking from experience, I book most of my dinners at Disney hotels.)
Yes, that is less convenient. But it’s much cheaper to eat at Narcoossee’s the Grand Floridian, as opposed to staying there overnight. If food is your sole motivator, stop by a Deluxe for dinner.
Photo: Disney
Side note: This also applies to gift shops. You can browse and shop at any hotel, with no exclusions.
Deluxe Hotels Have Better Pools – Worth It
All onsite Disney hotels have pools, but they vary in amenities. Some have more immersive theming, larger play areas for children, and features like hot tubs or lazy rivers.
Unfortunately, the “cooler” theming and features tend to be at the Deluxe resort pools. Since Deluxe resorts do step up their game in all-around amenities, this makes sense.
If an exceptional pool area is important to you, I’d consider a Deluxe stay. Why? Unlike restaurants that have no restrictions, guests can only use pools for resorts where they have room reservations.
Security can be tight at the pools, either requiring guests to scan in with MagicBands or provide proof of their stay.
Photo: Disney
So, if your perfect Disney vacation includes several resort pool days, paying for access to a Deluxe resort pool is worth it. This is doubly true for summer trips!
Deluxe Hotel Rooms (on Average) Are Larger – Sometimes Worth It
As someone who usually stays at Pop Century, my first Deluxe room was bigger – much bigger. (And I only booked a studio!)
There are benefits to larger hotel rooms. They are more comfortable. They can absorb clutter better when it comes to dirty laundry, supplies, and souvenirs.
But the larger room comes with a larger bill, so I don’t necessarily always recommend it. I recommend it for larger traveling parties or longer stays.
Staying in a Value Tier standard room can get cramped for more than two adults. It’s also less than ideal for 7+ night stays.
Credit: Disney
When selecting accommodations, I encourage you to consider these things before splurging vs. not splurging. Every vacation will have different needs.
All Star Music may be perfect for a long weekend with your spouse, whereas a DVC villa may be crucial for a family reunion trip.
Deluxe Hotels Have Daily Mousekeeping – Worth It
When booking a Deluxe hotel (at the rack rate/without using or renting DVC points), you will receive daily housekeeping (mousekeeping) services.
As someone who misses 2020 travels, this was wonderful. I tend to be neat, even when staying in hotels. Despite that, daily room upkeep made me feel like royalty.
Coming home to fresh towels, straightened items, empty trash cans, and a freshly made bed was lovely. This was great during a summer trip when I returned home much sweatier and more exhausted than per usual.
I didn’t realize how much I missed daily housekeeping until I stayed Deluxe. (Disney Cruise Line also offers this wonderful service, including towel animals, for all cabin tiers.)
Credit: Disney
While not a WDW trip dealbreaker, fellow neat freaks like me will love this service.
Deluxe Resorts Are Better for Adults – Sometimes Worth It
Some people book Deluxe resorts because they want a “grown-up” vibe. In general, this is true. While heavily themed, Deluxe resorts tend to veer towards elegance as opposed to 90s Disney Store-era vibes.
Some Deluxe resorts feature characters, but much more subtlety. They are nowhere near as colorful and bold as the family-centric Value tier hotels.
Often, travel agents will recommend honeymooners or adult-only parties to consider non-Value accommodations. Not only is the ambiance more sophisticated, but the better bars, restaurants, and pools matter.
Despite that, if anyone books a Deluxe hotel hoping to avoid all children, they will be disappointed. Families are Disney’s largest demographic. And many families choose Deluxe resorts with little concern if their toddler will appreciate the upgrade.
Photo: Disney
There may be fewer kids, but “kid-free” places don’t exist at Disney World. Don’t splurge on these hotels if you’re looking for an adult-only inclusive experience.
But, if you’re looking for a more relaxed trip and are traveling exclusively with a spouse/partner, a Deluxe may be the perfect fit.
Wait, What About the Price?
Ah, yes. The bottom line is the hardest selling point of Deluxe resorts. Top-tier hotels equal top-tier prices.
The rack rate can be softened by things like discounts or renting points from Disney Vacation Club Members. But I’ve never seen a deluxe room “on sale” at a cheaper price than a standard Value tier room.
Photo: Disney
Deluxe resorts have many benefits, but I’d urge everyone to stick to their budget. Different trip goals and priorities will affect your decision, but nothing is worth the burden of debt.
You can still have a magical trip, even staying in the smallest All Star Sports room. You may also be able to swing a splurge, even if that means that you shorten your trip.
Either way, don’t despair if a week-long stay at The Contemporary Resort is too expensive. Making budget-conscious decisions just makes it easier to return. Now, that’s magical!
Are Disney deluxe resorts worth it? You tell us. We wish you the best of luck in choosing a Disney hotel. You won’t be disappointed either way.
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Feature Image: Disney
