What to Know in Planning a Walt Disney World Vacation
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What to Know in Planning a Walt Disney World Vacation
Planning a trip to WDW takes a lot of thought and planning. Even with the best laid plans, one can encounter a bump or two along the way.
An Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, like myself, is a 'one-stop-Disney-vacation-shop!' I can help you build your vacation from beginning to end! The best part is that my AMAZING services come at no extra cost to you, than if you'd booked it yourself.
What are the perfect number of days for a Disney World vacation?
It really depends on what you are looking for in your vacation! Generally, three to five days is enough to experience the four main theme parks, but you can always add on extra days to explore the other attractions and experiences available. If you’re looking for a more leisurely vacation, seven to ten days would be ideal to truly enjoy everything Disney World has to offer.
When is the best time to visit Disney World?
The best time to visit Disney World is typically during the off-season. This usually falls between early January and late February, as well as the months of September and October. During these times, there are usually fewer crowds and lower prices. However, it's important to note that the busiest times of year (like summer, Christmas and Easter) can still be enjoyable if you plan ahead and make reservations in advance.
Common mistakes we see when people try to book themselves at the Happiest Place on Earth
Mistake #1 – Not reserving table service meals in advance. You’ll absolutely need to make a reservation for sit down meals 60/180 days prior to your arrival. And, beware…they go fast, especially signature and character experiences.
Mistake #2 – Not using mobile order. If quick service dining is preferred, we encourage you to order using your device in advance. Payment via this method is contactless and all you have to do is pick up your order and go.
Mistake #3 – Not budgeting in advance. This is especially true for food and merchandise. Scope out menus ahead of time and don’t impulse purchase. Try to go in with a PLAN and a budget and stick to it.
Mistake #4 – Overpacking. You don’t need four pairs of shoes and two pairs of Mickey ears per day! Make and stick to a packing list, but don’t forget essentials! Sure, you can find them on property, but at a premium.
Mistake #5 – Overplanning. Prioritize your parks and attractions, but don’t pen anything in. Variables like weather and crowds could quickly derail a day that has been booked down to the minute. Be sure to plan for breaks with all of that walking!
Mistake #6 – Ignoring the forecast. Monitor the weather in Orlando prior to departure and adjust accordingly. Likely rain gear will be needed for summers, and a sweater, sweatshirt or jacket needed for cooler winter nights.
Mistake #7 – Visiting at the wrong time. As a rule of thumb, holidays, school breaks, summer, and weekends will bring the crowds. If they’re too much for you and/or you prefer a more relaxed vibe, check out other times of the year.
Mistake #8 – Wearing the wrong shoes! You should not purchase those cool new sneaks specifically for this trip. New shoes are culprits for a world of hurt, and bandaids. Stick with pairs that are broken in and comfy.
Questions To Ask Your Travel Agent about Disney World
1) What package deals are available for Disney World?
2) Are there any discounts or special offers I can take advantage of?
3) What are the best times of the year to visit Disney World?
4) Are there any seasonal activities or attractions I should be aware of?
5) How far in advance do I need to book my trip?
6) What are the best ways to save money while visiting Disney World?
7) Are there any particular restaurants or attractions that I should make sure to experience while there?
8) Are there any insider tips or tricks that I should know before I go?
9) Are there any special events or experiences that I can book ahead of time?
10) Are there any safety protocols that I should be aware of?
Disney Properties, How do you make the right selection?
Staying on Disney property is certainly our recommendation. At the end of the day Disney is always telling a story, right? Well, the resorts on property certainly aren’t an exception. Plus, staying on property comes with perks that hotels off site just don’t have. Added value! With more than 25 resorts, how do you select the one that is best for your family? Here’s a quick look!
Disney separates its resorts into four categories - value, moderate, deluxe and villas (usually part of the Disney Vacation Club). Pricing, features onsite and availability of certain amenities start off pretty basic and add on from there.
Value – Pretty basic rooms and baths. Recreation and dining are limited – think large pool and food court. Transport is typically going to be via bus.
Moderate – Rooms here are larger and in different configurations as is the bath. View options, pools, recreation, and dining are a little more robust. Bus transport is typical here, but you might find a property with a boat.
Deluxe – Most posh rooms! Types and sizes can vary. The main draw is the proximity to the parks. This is as close as it gets! A park could be a quick walk or monorail ride away.
Villas – We’ll keep things simple here. Villas are a part of the Disney Vacation Club program (but can be booked for cash). Bath and bed configuration can vary by room size, but everything else is like a deluxe property.
Evaluate each category as described and make your selection based on the needs of your family. Need help in choosing which is best for you and your family? Let us guide you each step of the way!
More Details - Selecting a Resort on Walt Disney World Property
Each resort has been carefully crafted and immerses you in a story – and we LOVE that. Plus, staying on property comes with perks that hotels off site just don’t have. Added value! However, there are SO many resorts (more than 25!). So, how do you select the one that is best for your family? Well, we’re here to break it down for you, and as we go, remember the story! A hint or indicator of it is usually in the name.
Since the resorts are split into four budget categories - value, moderate, deluxe and villas (usually part of the Disney Vacation Club but can be booked for cash). Pricing usually follows this model as it sounds – value is a better price per night as compared to deluxe. Same goes for features onsite and availability of certain amenities. Let’s do a quick breakdown!
Value Category - Resort Level
The bulk of rooms in this category are standard and approximately 260 square feet. There is a basic bath setup (sink often in the open and toilet and shower/tub in a separate room) and bedding could be two doubles or a king. Some rooms in this category are family suites coming in at approximately 520 square feet. They have a similar set up as a standard but double the baths and add in some convertible sleeping options. From here things at both are about the same. Views can differ from parking areas and wooded areas to swimming pools – and naturally the better the view the higher the price. Speaking of swimming pools, the pools here are typically themed and could be interactive, but here’s your warning – no slides! Other forms of recreation can be limited – think poolside games, a playground, and an occasional movie outside at night. Dining options are slim too with your only options being a foot court or pool bar. Finally, transportation provided by Disney (a perk of staying onsite!) will usually be via a bus. The only exceptions to this are the Art of Animation Resort and Pop Century, which recently were added to the new-ish Skyliner route.
Includes: All Star Movies, All Star Music, All Star Sports, Art of Animation, Pop Century, and Campsites at Fort Wilderness.
Moderate Category - Resort Level
Standard rooms in this category are in the 300 square foot range with a similar bath set up as a value resort, but maybe an additional sink. Two queen beds or one king is the standard, but there might be a spot for a potential fifth person (otherwise four is max). Views are similar as well but throw in the possibility of a room facing/near a natural body of water. Pools, other recreation and dining options are a little more robust with the addition of “quiet pools,” water recreation, bikes, a health club (Coronado Springs), at least one table service restaurant and a lounge. Transport here is typically bus as well, but there might be a boat service from some resorts to Disney Springs.
Includes: Caribbean Beach, Coronado Springs, Port Orleans French Quarter, Port Orleans Riverside, and Cabins at Fort Wilderness
Deluxe Category - Resort Level
There are a variety of rooms and sizes here. We’re talking anywhere from 344 to 440 square feet. The bath situation can vary too and includes what you’ll find in a moderate, but probably in a different configuration for more privacy. If the room is larger, there might be several baths. Bedding configuration is like a moderate property with nothing smaller than a queen. However, it’s the views, recreation, dining, and transportation that sets a deluxe apart. Pools will have slides, hot tubs, or other water features. Spa services might even be available. There are more table service restaurants, room service and maybe even character dining your Walt Disney World onsite. Lastly, these resorts are typically in close proximity to a park (very attractive to some), so transportation options open up. Buses, skyliner and boats could still be available, but add walking and monorails to the list.
Includes: Animal Kingdom Lodge, Beach Club, BoardWalk Inn, Contemporary, Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, Polynesian Village, Wilderness Lodge, and Yacht Club.
Villas Category - Resort Level
We’ll keep things simple here. Villas are a part of the Disney Vacation Club program but can be booked for cash. Villas can be found at some deluxe properties, but there are also three that are dedicated to Disney Vacation Club. Rooms are villa style with more amenities and can range from a studio all the way to a three bedroom. Bath and bed configuration can vary by room size, but everything else is similar to a deluxe property.
Includes: Bay Lake Tower at the Contemporary, Boulder Ridge Villas at Wilderness Lodge, Copper Creek Villas and Cabins at Wilderness Lodge, Animal Kingdom Villas at Jambo House and Kidani Village, Beach Club Villas, BoardWalk Villas, Old Key West, Polynesian Villas and Bungalows, Riviera Resort, Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa, Villas at Grand Floridian Resort and Spa.
We’ll keep things simple here. Villas are a part of the Disney Vacation Club program but can be booked for cash. Villas can be found at some deluxe properties, but there are also three that are dedicated to Disney Vacation Club. Rooms are villa style with more amenities and can range from a studio all the way to a three bedroom. Bath and bed configuration can vary by room size, but everything else is similar to a deluxe property.
21 Fun Facts about Walt Disney World
Balloons Balloons have been a guest favorite since day one. Disneyland started selling them in 1955! And fun fact – if you pop your balloon while in the park just bring it back to the vendor and they’ll replace it! Ready to pick up yours? Then, let’s get planning! What’s the Disney souvenir of choice for you or your little ones? Balloon? Plush? T-shirt?
Beast and Belle Flower and Garden The Flower and Garden Festival at Epcot runs annually starting in the spring. Did you know that more than 500,000 plants, trees and shrubs are installed for the festival? A lot of people call it their favorite. Are you ready to find out? Our personal favorite Flower and Garden Festival topiary can be found in the France pavilion – Belle and Beast. If you’ve been, what was your favorite?
Boardwalk Staying on Disney property is special. Not only are you immersing yourself in a story and experience, but you might even be so close to the parks that you have this view! Ready to explore the onsite possibilities? Tell us, do you stay on Disney property? What is your favorite and why?
Carousel No visit to the Disney parks is complete without a ride on the carousel. With the backdrop of the castle, it stands as the most classic ride of them all. Ready to put this attraction on your must-do list? Do you know how to identify Cinderella’s horse?
Castle Fireworks Another Disney tradition is catching the nighttime fireworks! There have been many iterations over the years, and they just keep getting better and better. If you’re ready to see them in person, let’s connect! What has been your most recent fireworks show favorite?
Cinderella’s Castle Cinderella’s Castle as pulled straight from the movie, is said to have drawn influence from Versailles and Fontainebleau in France as well as Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany. Do you see the resemblance? The regal Cinderella’s Castle stands as our favorite castle from any park across the globe. Which castle is your favorite? What memories does it hold for you?
Epcot Flower and Garden Festival Epcot holds a lot of festivals throughout the year and our favorite can be seen here – the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival. Watch the park come to life in bloom each spring. Ready to schedule a visit to one of Epcot’s festivals? Topiaries? The fresh snacks? Scavenger hunt around World Showcase? What’s your favorite part of Flower and Garden?
Epcot Skyliner The Skyliner is the newest form of transportation on property having opened in September of 2019. It connects four resorts and two theme parks. The system is easy to navigate, convenient and the views while riding are mesmerizing. Ready to ride? Let’s get you there. The Skyliner has quickly become a transportation favorite among guests. Have you had the chance to experience it? Did you love it?
Expedition Everest There are a bunch of fun facts about Expedition Everest at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Most notably, it’s the tallest attraction on property. But did you know that despite its name, riders aren’t actually navigating Mount Everest? Instead, it holds the fictitious name of Forbidden Mountain. Disney Imagineers created it just for the storyline of the attraction! Riding forward…Riding backward (in the dark)…An 80 foot drop. Yikes! Do you love or hate Everest, um Forbidden Mountain?
Haunted Mansion As you weave through the Haunted Mansion queue pay close attention. The names on the tombstones are those of Imagineers! Some even worked on the build of the attraction itself! Another fun fact, as you exit there’s a pet cemetery. Towards the back there’s a tribute to Mr. Toad! Besides it’s 999 happy haunts, there’s a hidden Mickey inside the Haunted Mansion! Do you know where it’s located?
Mickey Ears and Castle Ears for some are a must have collectible. During your visit to WDW keep an eye out for ears that pay tribute to certain attractions and characters. If you’re looking to jump on an even hotter trend, go for one of the many color specific ears. Rose gold and purple potion are two favorites. Get your ears on!
Mickey Waffles Some say that waffles just taste better when they’re in the shape of Mickey and consumed on property. There is an abundance of breakfast locations where you’ll find this icon! And, while the mouse himself is the most widely available, you might spot Stitch or Simba at some spots as well! We love Mickey waffles! What’s your favorite Disney snack?
Monorail There are three different monorail lines. The Epcot line connects guest to Epcot via the Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC). The Resort line stops at Magic Kingdom, all three surrounding resorts and the TTC. The Express line is a direct connect between MK and the TTC. If the Express line is too long, hop on the Resort line if there’s a much shorter wait time and only make one additional stop at the Contemporary! The classic. The monorail. It’s our favorite. Is it yours too?
Pandora The stunning Pandora – World of Avatar. The film’s writer and director James Cameron played an integral role in the design of this land in Animal Kingdom as did producer Jon Landeau. They were joined by legendary Imagineer Joe Rohde. Did you know they left a little easter egg at the exit of Flight of Passage? Keep an eye out for it during your next visit! Flight of Passage. Pandora’s must-do attraction. Do you rope drop it? Or save it for your last attraction before close?
Spaceship Earth Spaceship Earth or as some call it, “the giant golf ball” is the very first ride that we take when visiting Epcot. We just can’t get over the fact that we travel in there! Imagineering at it’s finest. What is the first attraction on your list when visiting Epcot? What’s your favorite scene on Spaceship Earth? Rome burning? The Phoenicians?
Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge The most recent addition to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Galaxy’s Edge was announced in 2015. After over six years of concept development and construction, the first guests were welcomed in 2019! And, for reference, the timeline you’re entering when coming into the land is between the eighth and ninth film! Did you know there’s a hidden mini– Millennium Falcon ON the Falcon itself? Know where it is?
Teacups The teacups were our first ride EVER in the Magic Kingdom! We spun that thing so fast …you could hear the joy and excitement in our screams and laughs! What was your first ride EVER at a Disney Park? Share with us below. Ready to ride again? Let’s chat! Did you know the teacups were a Magic Kingdom opening day attraction? Can you name some others?
Tomorrowland Tomorrowland was a land that opened when the park itself opened on October 1, 1971. But it only featured two attractions, and Space Mountain wasn’t one of them! They were the Grand Prix Raceway and Skyway to Fantasyland, which, sadly, no longer exists. Rank your favorites! Choices – Space Mountain, Tomorrowland Transit Authority Peoplemover and Carousel of Progress.
Tower of Terror The Imagineers on the attraction watched every single episode of The Twilight Zone for inspiration, and it can be seen in the attraction’s queue area. There are a ton of easter eggs and the attention to detail is incredible. You might even spot some props used in actual episodes! The story of the hotel is that it was struck by lightning, and that’s the state you see it in. Do you know what date that strike occurred?
Tree of Life We encourage you to take the time and explore the paths that surround the Tree of Life at Animal Kingdom. They’re often overlooked as most others head straight for the main attractions. Here you’ll get a break from the crowds, an up-close view and excellent photo ops! There are 300 animals carved into the Tree of Life.
And did you know, it's NOT a Small World After All! Disney World encompasses over 50 square miles.
A quick example itinerary for starting a 3 day trip to WDW
This itinerary is chock full of park days. Consider checking out each park during the day and night. If the park time below is too much, you can always return to your hotel for pool time, check out Disney Springs or visit a waterpark!
DAY 1
Fly into Orlando in the morning and transfer to your hotel. Take your time in getting settled at the hotel and enjoy dinner onsite before an early sleep. Or, if you're feeling up to it, head to the Magic Kingdom! Try to hit some opening day attractions and maybe catch the nightly fireworks (if available).
DAY 2
Grab a quick to-go breakfast from the hotel and head to Epcot Center, or head to Epcot and go straight to Les Halles in the France pavilion for breakfast. Even though World Showcase typically opens later in the morning (around 11am) as compared to the rest of the park, Les Halles is typically open and serving. Return to your hotel in the middle of the day for a nap or swim, then head back out Hollywood Studios. If running, try to catch Fantasmic or Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular!
DAY 3
Grab a bite from the hotel or head to the Magic Kingdom for breakfast. Enjoy the morning exploring the park then return to your hotel. Spend some time relaxing and exploring — take a nap, enjoy the pool, partake in some activities, if available. After that if you're completely relaxed and feeling like hanging in, grab dinner on site. If you're up for it, head to Disney Springs for some shopping and dinner.
I would love to create the perfect FREE Disney vacation package for you and your family / guests. If you like to reach out to me, please use my Disney World Travel Inquiry Form.
Get in touch with Chali Francis
Chali Francis
As your dedicated travel agent, I specialize in crafting magical experiences, with a focus on Disney Destinations, unforgettable cruises, and luxurious all-inclusive resorts. With a passion for creating seamless and joyful journeys, let me turn your travel dreams into reality. Embark on adventures filled with pixie dust, ocean breezes, and the finest resort amenities. Let’s make your next getaway a tale of enchantment and relaxation!
Back by popular demand! Why download our guide? As an EarMarked Agency, we are recognized by Disney.
A Disney EarMarked travel agency is an agency that is officially recognized by Disney and has been given permission to provide Disney vacation packages and services. These agencies are specialists in planning vacations to Disney destinations and can help you find the best deals and packages for your trip. They can also provide personalized advice and help you plan your trip from start to finish.
As Authorized Disney Vacation Planners, we are knowledgeable in all things Disney vacations related.
An authorized Disney vacation planner is a professional travel advisor who specializes in Disney vacations. They are knowledgeable about all Disney destinations and resorts, and can help plan the perfect trip for you and your family. They can provide advice and assistance on EVERYTHING. From choosing the right resort and tickets, to planning the perfect itinerary. They can also suggest activities and attractions to make the most of your time in the Disney parks.
Chali Francis
What to Know in Planning a Walt Disney World Vacation
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As your dedicated travel agent, I specialize in crafting magical experiences, with a focus on Disney Destinations, unforgettable cruises, and luxurious all-inclusive resorts. With a passion for creating seamless and joyful journeys, let me turn your travel dreams into reality. Embark on adventures filled with pixie dust, ocean breezes, and the finest resort amenities. Let’s make your next getaway a tale of enchantment and relaxation!
An expert destination wedding travel agent near me with five star luxury travel packages with a luxury travel company, Vincent Vacations.
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Chali with Vincent Vacations is the best! She explained everything and we had no surprises. She got me a great deal on my daughter's Senior Trip over Spring Break. We could not have asked for a better travel agent that prepared us like Chali did. If you're planning a trip, call her!! You will not regret it! -Melody B
Hi, I am Chali Francis — a Travel Advisor based in Oklahoma, a Walt Disney World Annual Passholder, and a mom who knows the ins and outs of making Disney vacations magical for families!
One thing I hear from clients all the time is:
“We are thinking about skipping EPCOT until the kids are older.”
But trust me — EPCOT is absolutely worth visiting even with little ones!
From riding Frozen Ever After and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, exploring the underwater wonderland at The Seas Pavilion, to splashing through Moana’s Journey of Water, EPCOT has become a family favorite for good reason.
And there is a hidden gem that kids especially love: the Kidcot Fun Stops!
Kidcot Fun Stops are a FREE interactive experience located throughout World Showcase at EPCOT.
Kids (and grownups too!) can collect activity cards at each of the 11 international pavilions, meet Cast Members from around the world, and even learn a little about different cultures along the way.
When my daughter and I visit EPCOT, Kidcot is one of our must-do activities! She loves going from country to country, meeting new friends, and seeing how different — and yet how connected — our world is.
How to Experience Kidcot Fun Stops
It is super simple (and so much fun!):
Visit the Kidcot stop in any country — I recommend starting at the first country on your route!
Pick up your free Kidcot “suitcase” — a cute Ziploc bag to hold your treasures.
At each pavilion, find the Kidcot location and meet the Cast Member there.
Collect your country’s Kidcot card — and sometimes, if they have time, Cast Members will even:
Write your child’s name in their native language,
Share a story,
Or teach your child a simple phrase from their home country!
You can visit all 11 countries or just a few — it is completely flexible.
Kidcot is the perfect activity to sprinkle into your day while waiting for your next Lightning Lane or dining reservation!
Pro Tip: Some Kidcot stations are tucked away deeper inside the pavilions, so you might have to hunt for them — which is half the fun! You will get to explore parts of the countries you might otherwise walk right past.
Where to Find Kidcot Fun Stops at EPCOT
Here is a quick guide to where you can find each Kidcot location:
Mexico Pavilion — near the Mexico Folk Art Gallery
Norway Pavilion — inside The Puffin’s Roost
China Pavilion — near the exit of Reflections of China
Germany Pavilion — inside Volkunst shop
Italy Pavilion — outside, near La Bottega Italiana
American Adventure Pavilion — outside, near Art of Disney
Japan Pavilion — in the Bijutsu-kan Gallery
Morocco Pavilion — at the Marketplace in the Medina
France Pavilion — inside Souvenirs de France
United Kingdom Pavilion — inside The Toy Soldier
Canada Pavilion — at the exit of Canada Far and Wide in Circle-Vision 360
Whether you start your journey at Mexico, Canada, or (my personal favorite) the International Gateway, make sure to pick up your Kidcot “suitcase” and start collecting memories!
Why Families Should Not Skip EPCOT
Adding Kidcot into your day gives kids a mission — and helps turn World Showcase from a “walk through the countries” into an exciting, interactive adventure.
It is educational and it is fun, and it is one of the best-kept secrets when visiting EPCOT with children.
If you are planning your next Walt Disney World trip and would like help creating a vacation full of magical moments, I would love to help you!
Follow my social media channels @Chaliplansmagic on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube for more tips! If you are ready to plan, reach out — helping families create incredible Disney memories is what I do best!
Hi! I’m Chali Francis — a Walt Disney World Annual Passholder and Travel Advisor based in Oklahoma. I specialize in Walt Disney World and Universal vacations, and I help families find the best fit for their budget, travel style, and vacation goals.
With over 25 resort hotels to choose from on Walt Disney World property, there truly is something for everyone. Whether you are looking for deluxe accommodations with monorail access or something more budget-conscious that still keeps you immersed in the magic, Disney has you covered.
Today, I want to shine the spotlight on the most affordable resort options at Walt Disney World — the All-Star Resorts. These three value resorts are packed with fun theming, larger-than-life characters, and that special Disney touch. Let’s take a closer look at each one to help you decide which is the right fit for your family.
The All-Star Resorts are Disney’s most budget-friendly accommodations, but that does not mean you are missing out on the magic. In fact, staying at an All-Star resort still gives you access to many of the same perks you will find at higher-tier Disney resorts, such as:
Early Theme Park Entry
Complimentary bus transportation to all four theme parks and Disney Springs
Fun resort activities like poolside games, movies under the stars, arcades, and playgrounds
Large themed pools (while they do not have waterslides, they are still incredibly fun and kid-friendly)
Food courts and pool bars for convenient meals and snacks
A compact layout — making it easy to get from your room to the lobby, pool, or bus stop without a long walk
Plus, the All-Star Resorts are “motel-style,” meaning you access your room from an exterior corridor. This makes it super simple to get in and out without walking down long interior hallways — a small but convenient perk when you have tired little ones after a long park day.
Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort
If you are traveling with younger children (or young at heart!), All-Star Movies is a guest favorite. With bold, oversized character statues and vibrant theming throughout, every corner of this resort feels like you stepped into a Disney film.
The resort is divided into five themed sections:
Toy Story
101 Dalmatians
Fantasia
The Mighty Ducks
Herbie the Love Bug
Each section features iconic characters and playful designs — from giant Woody and Buzz to Sorcerer Mickey casting magic over the Fantasia pool. It is a great option for families who want to keep the Disney magic going even after they leave the parks.
Personal pick: This is my favorite All-Star Resort because of the imaginative theming and classic movie nostalgia that makes every part of the resort feel special.
Disney’s All-Star Music Resort
All-Star Music hits a high note with sections themed after different musical genres, including jazz, rock, country, Broadway, and calypso. It is colorful, energetic, and full of personality.
But what really makes All-Star Music stand out is its family suites — one of the few value-level options that can sleep up to six guests. These suites include a bedroom, a living area with additional sleeping options, two bathrooms, and a kitchenette.
For families needing a bit more space without upgrading to a moderate or deluxe resort, this is the best budget-friendly option on Disney property. Standard value and moderate resort rooms typically accommodate up to four people (plus one infant under 3), so the extra room here is a game-changer for larger families.
Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort
All-Star Sports celebrates athletics with oversized icons representing baseball, football, basketball, tennis, and surfing. From giant tennis rackets to surfboards taller than your room, it is a high-energy resort that kids (especially sports lovers) will absolutely adore.
While it may be the last All-Star Resort I typically choose, that is just personal preference — the theming is bold and playful, and if you have a future MVP in the family, this could be the perfect fit. Like the other All-Star Resorts, it also has a themed pool, food court, and quick access to Disney transportation.
Value Without Sacrificing the Magic
All three All-Star Resorts provide incredible value while still letting you stay inside the “Disney bubble.” You get that extra dose of pixie dust with every pool party, every themed section, and every cast member interaction — all while keeping your vacation budget-friendly.
You will enjoy:
Easy-to-navigate resorts that are compact and walkable
Fun and safe spaces for kids to play, swim, and explore
All the convenience of staying onsite — no need to worry about driving, parking, or missing out on Early Entry
Ready to Plan?
Disney Resorts are one of my favorite topics to talk about — and where you stay can truly make a big difference in your overall vacation experience. Whether you are team Toy Story or dreaming of a suite that fits the whole family, there is an All-Star Resort that can be a perfect match for your trip.
My name is Chali, and I specialize in Walt Disney World vacations. I would love to help you plan a magical, stress-free getaway that fits your budget and your dreams.
Let’s connect!
Follow me on TikTok and Instagram: @chaliplansmagic
Or reach out directly to get started on your Disney vacation!
2026 Walt Disney World vacation packages are now open for booking—yes, it is already time to plan your magical escape! I’m Chali Francis, a Walt Disney World Annual Passholder and travel advisor based in Oklahoma, specializing in Disney and Universal vacations. As part of the expert team at Vincent Vacations, I help families plan unforgettable trips to Walt Disney World with less stress and more magic. Whether you are dreaming of the parks in spring, summer, or early fall, booking early gives you the best availability and access to the magic.
One of the biggest highlights in 2026?
Kids ages 3–9 will receive a FREE Disney Dining Plan when staying at a Disney Resort hotel and purchasing a dining plan for the rest of their travel party. That means more character meals, Mickey-shaped treats, and dining freedom — without worrying about those extra meal costs for your littlest Mouseketeers.
This offer is available all throughout 2026 and can even be combined with select future promotions. That’s where I come in!
When you plan your Disney vacation with me, I do more than just help you book a resort and tickets. I monitor Disney’s promotions daily — and if a new discount becomes available for your dates, I apply it after you’re already booked. So you can lock in your dream vacation and still take advantage of deals as they’re released. That means less stress, more savings, and all the magic you’re looking for.
And let’s not forget the perks of staying at a Disney Resort hotel in 2026:
30-minute early entry to every theme park, every day
Free Disney transportation (monorail, Skyliner, buses, boats)
Free parking at resorts, parks, and water parks
Early access to dining reservations and Lightning Lane selections
And beginning summer 2026, free water park admission on your check-in day!
Plus, Disney Resort guests enjoy the magic even outside the parks with themed pools, character dining, resort activities, surprise character visits, and that signature Disney hospitality.
If 2026 is your year for magic, I would love to help you bring that dream to life. From selecting the perfect resort to creating a personalized itinerary, I make the planning process easy and exciting. Let’s make your Walt Disney World vacation unforgettable! Reach out today, or follow me on social at @ChaliPlansMagic to get started.
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