Updated: July 2026
Choosing the right Disney Resort is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make when planning a Walt Disney World vacation. If you’re looking for a little more space, additional amenities, and immersive theming without the price tag of a Deluxe Resort, Disney’s Moderate Resorts may be the perfect fit.
Often described as the “best of both worlds,” Moderate Resorts offer upgraded accommodations, unique recreation, and beautiful settings while remaining more budget-friendly than Disney’s Deluxe Resorts.
So, what makes Disney’s Moderate Resorts special, and which one might be right for your vacation? Let’s take a closer look.
Planning Tip: Start with the Right Resort
Not sure whether a Value, Moderate, or Deluxe Resort is right for your vacation?
Before narrowing down your options, explore my Disney World Resort Hotel Guide, where I compare every Disney Resort category, transportation options, amenities, and who each resort is best suited for.
Why Choose a Disney Moderate Resort?
Moderate Resorts bridge the gap between Disney’s Value and Deluxe categories.
They typically offer:
- Larger guest rooms
- More peaceful surroundings
- Beautiful landscaping
- Additional dining options
- Enhanced recreation
- More immersive theming
For many families, they’re the perfect balance between comfort, convenience, and value.
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
If transportation is high on your priority list, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort is one of my favorite Moderate Resort recommendations.
With colorful island-inspired villages, sandy beaches, and tropical landscaping, the resort feels like a relaxing Caribbean escape.
It’s also home to Disney’s Skyliner hub, providing quick and scenic transportation to both EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Families of five will appreciate the availability of fifth-sleeper rooms, while food lovers shouldn’t miss Sebastian’s Bistro, one of my favorite Disney Resort restaurants.
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Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort offers one of the most unique experiences in the Moderate category.
Inspired by Spanish, Mexican, and American Southwest influences, this resort blends beautiful architecture with a more upscale atmosphere.
The addition of Gran Destino Tower introduced stylish rooms, Club Level accommodations, rooftop dining, and expanded amenities that make Coronado Springs feel closer to a Deluxe Resort than many guests expect.
If you’re looking for a more refined resort experience without Deluxe pricing, this is definitely one to consider.
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
For guests looking for a peaceful retreat, Port Orleans Riverside is a wonderful choice.
Inspired by the Louisiana bayou, this resort features beautiful riverfront pathways, stately mansions, rustic lodges, and one of the most relaxing atmospheres at Walt Disney World.
Some of my favorite features include:
- Boat transportation to Disney Springs
- Horse-drawn carriage rides
- Live entertainment featuring Yee-Haw Bob Jackson
- Royal Guest Rooms for princess fans
It’s an excellent choice for families and couples who enjoy slower-paced vacations.
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
French Quarter may be Disney’s smallest Moderate Resort, but that’s part of its charm.
With cobblestone streets, jazz-inspired music, wrought-iron balconies, and colorful New Orleans architecture, it offers a unique atmosphere unlike any other Disney Resort.
Guests can also enjoy:
- Scat Cat’s Club
- Mickey-shaped beignets
- Boat transportation to Disney Springs
- Easy walking distance throughout the resort
If convenience and a smaller footprint are important to you, French Quarter is an excellent option.
Moderate Resort Amenities
One of the biggest advantages of Moderate Resorts is the variety of amenities available beyond the parks.
Depending on the resort, you’ll find:
- ✔ Feature pools with water slides
- ✔ Quiet pools
- ✔ Table-service and quick-service dining
- ✔ Campfires and outdoor movies
- ✔ Bike rentals
- ✔ Fishing
- ✔ Recreation activities
- ✔ Beautiful walking trails
These experiences make it easy to enjoy a relaxing resort day without feeling like you’re missing out.
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Complimentary Disney Transportation
Every Disney Moderate Resort includes complimentary Disney transportation.
Depending on where you stay, transportation may include:
- Disney buses
- Disney Skyliner
- Boat transportation
- Walking paths to nearby destinations
Caribbean Beach Resort offers direct Skyliner access to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios, while both Port Orleans Resorts provide scenic boat transportation to Disney Springs.
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The Disney Difference
One of my favorite things about staying at a Disney Resort is that the magic doesn’t end when you leave the parks.
From beautifully themed surroundings and friendly Cast Members to unique dining, recreation, and evening entertainment, every Disney Resort offers experiences that become part of your vacation memories.
Moderate Resorts strike a wonderful balance between affordability and those special Disney touches that make staying on property feel truly immersive.
Is a Disney Moderate Resort Right for You?
I often recommend Moderate Resorts to guests who:
- ✨ Want more space than a Value Resort
- ✨ Enjoy relaxing at their resort
- ✨ Appreciate immersive theming
- ✨ Want upgraded amenities without Deluxe pricing
- ✨ Plan to spend time exploring Disney Resorts
For many travelers, Moderate Resorts offer the perfect balance of comfort, convenience, and value.
Continue Planning Your Disney Resort Stay
Still deciding where to stay? These guides can help you compare your options and plan the perfect Disney vacation:
➡️ Disney World Resort Hotel Guide
- Ranking Disney’s Value Resorts
- Top Benefits of Staying at a Disney Resort
- Disney Resort Reviews
- Disney Transportation Guide
- No Theme Park Ticket Required
✨ Ready to Plan Your Disney World Vacation?
Choosing the right Disney Resort can make all the difference in your vacation experience, and I’d love to help you find the perfect fit.
As a Disney vacation specialist, I provide complimentary planning services that include personalized resort recommendations, dining guidance, promotion monitoring, and support from the day you book until you return home.
➡️ Contact DizN Vacations with Jessica Yashin today to start planning your Disney World vacation!
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