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Comparing Walt Disney World Value and Deluxe Resorts: Which Is Right for You?

Planning a trip to Walt Disney World is exciting, but one of the biggest decisions you need to make is choosing the right resort. With so many options, it can be overwhelming to figure out which one best suits your needs and budget. If you are trying to decide between Walt Disney World’s Value Resorts and Deluxe Resorts, I’m here to help you understand the key differences.

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Value Resorts: Fun and Budget-Friendly

Walt Disney World’s Value Resorts are ideal for smaller families or guests looking to spend the majority of their time at the parks rather than the hotel. When you enter a Value Resort, you’re immediately greeted by bold, larger-than-life Disney theming. These resorts are designed to immerse you in a fun, vibrant atmosphere, perfect for Disney fans of all ages.

However, the accommodations are more basic. The lobbies are simpler, and amenities are limited. Value Resort room doors open to the outdoors, in a “motel” style set up. Each Value Resort has a food court for quick meals, but you won’t find any table service restaurants. The rooms are compact, typically featuring a queen bed and a fold-down table bed. All Star Music and Art of Animation do offer Family Suites that can accommodate 6 guests, where Standard rooms at Value Resorts will sleep up to 4 guests. (Children 2 and younger do not count toward occupancy limits at any Walt Disney World Resort) Storage space, particularly in the bathroom, is minimal, though there is a dresser for your belongings.

One of the highlights of Value Resorts is the whimsical theming, which continues outside with oversized characters and colorful designs. The pools are fun but do not have water slides. Transportation-wise, the All-Star Resorts rely on buses only with uncovered bus stops, while Pop Century and Art of Animation offer the added convenience of the Skyliner, which provides faster access to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios in addition to bus service to Animal Kingdom and Magic Kingdom.

Deluxe Resorts: Luxury, Convenience, and Extra Amenities

If you are looking for a more luxurious experience, Deluxe Resorts are a great choice. These resorts offer a refined atmosphere, with more understated Disney theming and larger, more comfortable rooms. Deluxe Resort room doors open to interior hallways, and include additional storage space, with larger closets and more drawer space, making it easier to unpack and settle in. You will also find roomier bathrooms, which is a plus for longer stays.

Deluxe Resorts also provide a wider range of amenities, including table service restaurants, where you can enjoy a sit-down meal without leaving your hotel. The beds are more comfortable, and you can expect a higher level of service overall.

The pool areas at Deluxe Resorts are more upscale, featuring fun themed water slides, and some even offer cabana rentals for added relaxation.

Many Deluxe Resorts also have unique transportation options that make getting to the parks easier and more convenient. For example, the Epcot Resort Area Deluxe Resorts—including the Beach Club, Yacht Club, and Boardwalk—are within walking distance of both Epcot and Hollywood Studios. If walking isn’t your preference, you can also take a relaxing boat ride to either park.

In the Magic Kingdom Resort Area, the Polynesian, Grand Floridian, and Contemporary resorts offer direct access to the monorail, giving you quick transportation to both Magic Kingdom and Epcot. In addition, these resorts provide boat transportation to Magic Kingdom, and there are walking trails from the Grand Floridian and Contemporary to the Magic Kingdom. If you’re looking for a more serene experience, Wilderness Lodge is set a bit farther back but still offers the convenience of boat access to Magic Kingdom.
Animal Kingdom Lodge is a bus only Deluxe resort but the theming, dining options, animals, and often lower price point compared to other Deluxe options make it one of my family’s favorite resorts on property!

The bus stops at Deluxe Resorts are covered, keeping you dry and comfortable during those rainy Florida afternoons, and the walk to transportation is often covered as well, offering added comfort.

One of the major perks of staying at a Deluxe Resort is the access to Extended Evening Hours, currently available two nights a week at select parks. This allows you extra time in the parks after they close to the general public, which can be a huge advantage, especially if you want to enjoy the attractions with fewer crowds.

Which Resort Is Right for You?

Choosing between a Value and a Deluxe Resort ultimately comes down to your priorities and how you plan to spend your time at Walt Disney World. If you’re on a budget or plan to be at the parks all day, a Value Resort may be the best option. They offer everything you need for a comfortable stay and fun theming that adds to the Disney magic without breaking the bank.

On the other hand, if you’re planning to spend more time at your resort or prefer a more relaxed, upscale environment, a Deluxe Resort is well worth the investment. The extra amenities, larger rooms, and additional perks like Extended Evening Hours make it a great choice for those looking to enjoy more of their resort experience.

Don’t Forget About Moderate Resorts

And if you’re still unsure, keep in mind that Walt Disney World also offers Moderate Resorts, which fall somewhere between the Value and Deluxe options. They provide a balance between price and amenities, offering a little more comfort than the Value Resorts without the higher price tag of the Deluxe options.
Deluxe Villas and Good Neighbor Hotels are also options you can consider with your Walt Disney World package, though we will continue to focus on Deluxe v Value in this writing!

With over 30 resort options to choose from on Walt Disney World property, the choices can seem never ending!
No matter which resort you choose, you are sure to have a magical time at Walt Disney World. Whether you are looking for budget-friendly fun or a luxurious getaway, there is a resort that fits your needs.
If you would like help planning your trip and deciding which resort is the perfect fit for your family, please reach out—I have personally stayed at or visited every resort on property and I would love to help you make your decision easier and create the perfect Disney vacation for your family!

Big changes are coming soon to Walt Disney World, changing the way you can plan your vacation! Genie + is being replaced by Lightning Lane Multi Pass, let's take a look at what this means for your next trip:

Lightning Lane Pass is Disney’s paid service that allows guests to skip the standby queue and more quickly ride attractions via the Lightning Lanes - replacing Genie+. Starting July 24, 2024 you can purchase Lightning Lane passes and make selections up to 7 days in advance of your arrival giving you more time to plan your visit. Let's explore frequently asked questions about Lightning Lane Multi and Single Pass, how to use them, and if utilizing this service is the best choice for your Disney vacation!

What are Lightning Lane Passes?

Lightning Lane Passes are Disney World's newest paid way to skip the standby line for most rides and experiences in Walt Disney World. This is not just a renaming of Genie+, it is a complete revamping of the line 'skipping' services, allowing guests more control over planning their days at the parks. Lightning Lane Multi Pass is replacing Genie+ and Lightning Lane Single Pass is replacing Individual Lightning Lanes. This service allows you to bypass the standby line and enter the shorter 'Lightning Lane' line, eliminating much of the time you would otherwise spend waiting in line for rides, giving you more time in your day to enjoy other experiences Walt Disney World offers, like parades, character meets, and other entertainment!

What is a Lightning Lane Multi Pass?

Lightning Lane Multi Pass (LLMP) is the new service replacing Genie+. Much like Genie+ you are paying to be able to schedule a window of time for an attraction where you can skip the standby queue and enter through the Lightning Lane. Unlike Genie+ you will be able to book your selections up to 7 days prior to your arrival and select 3 different experiences. You will also receive digital downloads of select attraction photos from your day, captured with Disney PhotoPass Service. Plus, access Disney PhotoPass Lenses!

What is a Lightning Lane Single Pass?

Lighting Lane Single Passes are replacing Individual Lightning Lanes. Each park has one or two premium attractions that are not included within Lighting Lane Multi Pass and are purchased separately. You do not have to use Multi Pass to purchase these. Unlike Individual Lightning Lane, you will be able to book your selection(s) prior to your arrival. You will have the ability to make selections and pick your return window prior to purchase.

What are some of the advantages of Lightning Lane Multi Pass over Genie+?

The biggest advantage is being able to manage this pre-arrival, rather than having to wake up at 7am while on vacation to book your first selection for the day. Additionally, you can see availability and make attraction selections and pick times prior to purchase, ensuring you are happy with your initial selection(s) prior to payment. Finally, LLMP offers the ability to hold up to 3 selections at one time. After using one of your pre-booked selections, you can book additional Lightning Lane Multi Passes throughout the day, keeping a maximum of 3 active at any time.

The complimentary features of Disney Genie Service will continue to be available in the MDE app

When does the switch from Genie+ to Lighting Lane Multi Pass take place?

Starting July 24, 2024 you can purchase Lightning Lane passes and make selections up to 7 days in advance of your arrival giving you more time to plan your visit.

What is a Lightning Lane?

Lightning Lanes are Disney's alternative to the standby queue, allowing guests to have a much shorter wait before experiencing an attraction. You must purchase a Lightning Lane Pass (or have DAS) to enter a Lightning Lane.

With Multi Pass, can I choose from any three Lighting Lane experiences?

Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and Hollywood Studios have a tiered system. You may pick one experience from Tier 1 and two (or all three) from Tier 2. Animal Kingdom only has one tier, and any three experiences that are available may be chosen. We talk about the different groups further down.

When can you buy Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Single Pass?

The booking window starts at different times depending on whether you are staying on site at a Disney World Resort hotel or off property:

For guests staying at a Walt Disney World Resort, Lightning Lane Passes, both multi and single passes, can be purchased up to 7 days in advance of check-in, for their entire stay.

Off property guests with date-based theme park tickets can purchase Lightning Lane passes and choose experiences and return times for the total number of valid admission days starting 3 days in advance.

AP, who are not staying on property, and guests with other ticket types must purchase 3 days before their park visit, one day at a time.

What time will guests be able to purchase Lightning Lane Passes?

Guests can purchase Lightning Lane Passes for the days they have valid theme park admission starting at 7:00 AM Eastern Time on their first day of eligibility.

How do I purchase Lighting Lane Multi Pass and Single Pass?

Passes will be available for purchase in the My Disney Experience app

Open the MDE app, then tap the Lightning Lane Passes section on the home screen

Select a date and theme park

Select Lightning Lane Multi Pass, Single Pass, or both

Follow all prompts to complete your purchase

From the confirmation screen, you can tap “Plan another day” to purchase another pass or “View My Day” for details about your selection

*Lightning Lane passes are nonrefundable and nontransferable but can be modified pending availability*

When can international guests purchase Lightning Lanes?

International travelers can only purchase Lightning Lane passes and make selections upon arrival into the United States.

How much does Lightning Lane Multi Pass cost?

The price of Lightning Lane Multi Passes will vary by date and theme park. The prices for Lightning Lane Single Passes also vary both by date and attraction. Beginning July 24, 2024, prices will be available in the My Disney Experience app.

Can you make Lightning Lane Multi Pass selections in a different park if you are planning to Park Hop?

You must schedule your first three Lighting Lanes selections at the same park. If you have a Park Hopper ticket or an Annual Pass, once you redeem your first selection of the day, you can use the MDE app to choose another Lighting Lane return time in any of the other theme parks, subject to availability.

Is there an additional charge for using the Multi Pass when park hopping?

No. There is no additional charge for Park Hopping.

Can I book a Lightning Lane selection to the same attraction multiple times?

No. You may only use Lightning Lane Multi Pass to book an attraction one time each day. But you can always join the standby line to ride twice.

Can you use Lighting Lane Multi Pass with all the same experiences as Genie+?

No. Character meet & greets will no longer offer Lightning Lanes, nor will parades and other entertainment.

Rides Available for selection at each park:

Magic Kingdom:

Tier 1: Choose up to one experience from this tier:

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

Jungle Cruise

Peter Pan’s Flight

Space Mountain

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure

Tier 2: Choose your other 2 experiences—or all 3—from this tier:

Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin

The Barnstormer

Dumbo the Flying Elephant

Haunted Mansion

“it’s a small world”

Mad Tea Party

The Magic Carpets of Aladdin

The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh

Mickey’s PhilharMagic

Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor

Pirates of the Caribbean

Tomorrowland Speedway

Under the Sea ~ Journey of The Little Mermaid

EPCOT:

Tier 1 Choose up to one experience from this tier:

Frozen Ever After

Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure

Soarin’ Around the World

Tier 2: Choose your other 2 experiences—or all 3—from this tier:

Disney and Pixar Short Film Festival

Journey into Imagination with Figment

Living with the Land

Mission: SPACE

The Seas with Nemo & Friends

Spaceship Earth

Turtle Talk with Crush

Hollywood Studios:

Tier 1: Choose up to one experience from this tier:

Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway

Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith

Slinky Dog Dash

Tier 2: Choose your other 2 experiences—or all 3—from this tier:

Alien Swirling Saucers

Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage

Disney Junior Play & Dance!

For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration

Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular

Muppet*Vision 3D

Star Tours – The Adventures Continue

The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror

Toy Story Mania!

Animal Kingdom:

Animal Kingdom only has one tier. Any three selections that are available may be scheduled from the following experiences:

DINOSAUR

Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain

Feathered Friends in Flight!

Festival of the Lion King

Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond!

It’s Tough to Be a Bug!

Kali River Rapids

Kilimanjaro Safaris

Naʻvi River Journey

In addition to Lightning Lane Multi Pass, you can purchase up to 2 Lightning Lane Single Passes per day:

Magic Kingdom:

Seven Dwarfs Mine Train

TRON Lightcycle Run

EPCOT:

Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind

Hollywood Studios:

Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance

Animal Kingdom:

Avatar Flight of Passage

Is it necessary to use the Lightning Lane Pass system?

Absolutely not. It is possible to tour the parks without purchasing a Lightning Lane Pass, almost every ride has a standby queue that can be used at no extra charge. The exceptions to this are TRON and Guardians of the Galaxy, which do not currently have a standard standby line, but do have a virtual queue. Depending on crowd levels, having LLMP can make it easier to fit in more rides. However, LLMP is not a requirement for having an enjoyable vacation! We do recommend using LLMP at Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios, especially if you are aiming experience more of the more popular attractions.

I am excited to use this new system on my upcoming trip!

Follow along on my socials for Disney tips and reach out when you are ready to plan your next Disney Destinations vacation, I would love to assist!

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