What’s the Best Disney+ Hotel? A Deep Dive for Discerning Fans

Let’s cut to the chase. While “best” is subjective, heavily influenced by budget, family size, and desired park access, for the ultimate Disney+ hotel experience combining luxury, convenience, and immersive theming, my vote goes to Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. It’s not just a hotel; it’s a statement, a symbol, and a gateway to experiencing Disney in its most opulent form.

The Grand Floridian: More Than Just a Pretty Facade

The Grand Floridian isn’t just about Victorian elegance and pristine lawns. Its value lies in its strategic location on the Magic Kingdom monorail loop, granting unparalleled access to the park. Walk, boat, or ride the monorail – the options are abundant, minimizing travel time and maximizing park time. Beyond that, you’re paying for exceptional service, spacious rooms (even by Disney standards), and some of the finest dining on property, including the signature restaurant Victoria & Albert’s.

Why the Grand Floridian Reigns Supreme

• Monorail Access: I can’t stress enough how important this is. Especially with little ones, eliminating the bus shuffle dramatically improves your vacation experience.
• World-Class Dining: From character breakfasts at 1900 Park Fare (when it returns) to fine dining at Citricos or the unparalleled Victoria & Albert’s, the culinary options are diverse and consistently exceptional.
• Luxurious Accommodations: The rooms are spacious, well-appointed, and recently refurbished, offering a haven of tranquility after a long day in the parks.
• Immersive Theming: The Victorian-era theme is executed flawlessly, transporting you to a bygone era of elegance and charm. Live music in the lobby is an everyday occurrence.
• Proximity to Other Resorts: Easily hop on the monorail to visit the Polynesian Village Resort or the Contemporary Resort for additional dining and recreational options.
• Exceptional Service: Disney cast members are known for their dedication to guest satisfaction, but the service at the Grand Floridian is consistently elevated.

The Downside: The Price Tag

Of course, all this comes at a price. The Grand Floridian is one of the most expensive resorts on Disney property. It’s essential to weigh the cost against the benefits and determine if the splurge aligns with your vacation priorities. If you’re primarily focused on spending as much time in the parks as possible and are willing to sacrifice some luxury for budget considerations, other resorts might be a better fit. But if you want to truly immerse yourself in the Disney experience and enjoy the finer things in life, the Grand Floridian is worth considering.

Alternatives: Other Contenders for the Disney+ Title

While I believe the Grand Floridian offers the most comprehensive experience, other resorts deserve consideration, depending on your specific needs and preferences:

• Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort: Another monorail resort with a South Pacific theme, known for its Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto and the Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show (currently unavailable). It offers a relaxed, tropical vibe that appeals to many. It is a great option if you like deluxe resort theming but still want easy access to the Magic Kingdom.

• Disney’s Contemporary Resort: This iconic resort offers walking distance access to Magic Kingdom and monorail access to Epcot (via a transfer). It’s known for its modern design and the Chef Mickey’s character dining experience.

• Disney’s Wilderness Lodge: If you prefer a rustic, nature-inspired setting, Wilderness Lodge is an excellent choice. It offers boat transportation to Magic Kingdom and a more relaxed atmosphere.

• Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts: Located within walking distance of Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, these resorts offer a nautical theme and access to Stormalong Bay, one of the best pool complexes on property.

• Disney’s Riviera Resort: A Deluxe Villa resort with a European Riviera theme, offering stunning views and access to the Disney Skyliner. This is your best option if you enjoy upscale dining and are okay being further from the Magic Kingdom.

Ultimately, the best Disney+ hotel is the one that best suits your needs and priorities. Consider your budget, travel style, and desired level of immersion when making your decision.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What does “Disney+ hotel” even mean? I’m using “Disney+ hotel” to refer to a Disney World resort that offers an exceptional, all-encompassing Disney experience – not just a place to sleep, but an integral part of your vacation.

2. How much does a stay at the Grand Floridian cost? Prices vary depending on the season, room type, and availability, but expect to pay anywhere from $800 to over $2,000 per night. It’s definitely a splurge!

3. Is the monorail the only way to get to Magic Kingdom from the Grand Floridian? No, you can also take a boat or even walk (although the walk is longer). The monorail is the fastest and most convenient option.

4. Are there more affordable hotels with monorail access? Yes, Disney’s Contemporary Resort and Polynesian Village Resort also offer monorail access, but they are still considered Deluxe resorts and come with a higher price tag than Value or Moderate resorts.

5. What are the benefits of staying at a Deluxe resort vs. a Value resort? Deluxe resorts offer larger rooms, more dining options, better amenities (pools, spas, recreation), and more convenient transportation options. Value resorts are more budget-friendly but offer fewer amenities and less convenient transportation.

6. Is it worth paying extra for a theme park view room? That depends on your priorities. A theme park view can be magical, especially at night when you can see the fireworks from your room. However, you’ll likely be spending most of your time in the parks, so consider if the view is worth the extra cost.

7. What’s the deal with Disney’s BoardWalk Inn? It’s a delightful option in the Epcot Resort Area, offering charming theming and easy access to both Epcot and Hollywood Studios via walking or boat transportation. It has a lively atmosphere, especially in the evenings, with entertainment and dining options.

8. Are the pools at the Grand Floridian any good? Absolutely! The Beach Pool has a waterslide and a zero-entry area, while the Courtyard Pool offers a more relaxed atmosphere. There are also smaller pools and splash areas for younger children.

9. What dining reservations should I try to get in advance? Definitely try to book reservations for Victoria & Albert’s (if you’re celebrating a special occasion), Citricos, and any character dining experiences you’re interested in. Dining reservations can be made up to 60 days in advance.

10. What are the benefits of using Disney’s Magical Express (if it were still available)? Magical Express provided complimentary transportation from Orlando International Airport (MCO) to your Disney resort. Unfortunately, this service is no longer offered, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation.

11. What are the pros and cons of staying at an “off-property” hotel near Disney World? Off-property hotels are often more affordable and offer more space, but you’ll typically have to pay for parking at the parks and won’t have access to the same level of Disney theming and service. Transportation can also be less convenient.

12. If I can’t afford the Grand Floridian, which resort offers the best “bang for my buck”? For a balance of affordability and convenience, consider Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort. It offers access to the Disney Skyliner, connecting you to Epcot and Hollywood Studios, and features a fun, tropical theme. The food court there is also one of the best value quick service locations on property.