Walt Disney World is home to 32 resorts and hotels, 22 of which are Disney-owned and operated. Some of those resorts may be deemed overrated or overpriced. Today, we are going to look at three of those resorts that are commonly given the title “underrated,” and I want to know if you agree with the three hotels that we picked!
Disney’s POP Century Resort
POP Century has experienced a glow-up ever since the Disney Skyliner opened. Many guests choose Art of Animation over this resort due to the theming and the family suites, which is totally fair. For many, this resort is perfect and offers everything they need.
The rooms recently got updated and reflect a more modern vibe, while the resort’s exterior still holds that nostalgic feel with the enormous photo opportunities. This resort has newer rooms, fun photo opportunities, and good food, and it is also decently priced. My best friend and her husband have two kids, and every time they visit Walt Disney World, this is the most affordable option for them. The best part is that the kids love it.
I think this resort has grown in popularity over the years, but it’s still viewed as “the cheap hotel” or the “this was our last option,” but it is truly a wonderful place to stay. No, it’s not fancy, but it has a diverse food court, fun pools, several modes of transportation, and plenty of family-friendly activities.
Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter & Riverside
Now, this is the hill I’m willing to die on. I genuinely think these resorts are overlooked and underrated. I feel like guests judge the size of the resorts and the amount of amenities offered, leading to most families choosing Caribbean Beach as the moderate resort they stay at. I know there’s a group of die-hard Port Orleans fans, and I am one of them.
I know there’s only one table-service restaurant and that French Quarter is small, but it’s a magical place. This is a hotel that I think everyone should stay at, even if it’s only once. It’s such a charming area. I have stayed at both French Quarter and Riverside, and it was the most peaceful vacation I’ve ever had.
The argument I see a lot is that these resorts don’t have as many amenities, but I beg to differ. I know French Quarter lacks activities and amenities, but Riverside, the larger resort, is just a quick walk or a boat ride away. As for French Quarter, I wish they would change the fact that the rooms max out at four guests. I wish they would make some rooms that could fit five guests comfortably because that would bring more guests to the resort.
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
Coronado Springs Resort is starting to get the recognition it deserves. This resort offers a deluxe experience but is priced as a moderate resort, which is fantastic. I know some people steer clear of this resort because it has a convention center, so at times, it can be busy with conference attendees, but it’s really not that bad.
This resort has some of the best food at Walt Disney World. There are several dining options, from quick-service dining to lounges and table-service restaurants. One of the biggest turn-offs is that the resort is vast, and some rooms are very far from the main building, where the food and shopping areas are. What makes up for that is how beautiful the grounds are. It makes the walk so much better.
The biggest thing for me is that this is the only moderate resort with a gym for guests. I know most people don’t care about that, but I love using resort gyms, and when I stay at moderate resorts or value resorts, I don’t get to participate in that. When I stayed at Coronado Springs and saw there was a gym, my entire trip was made.