Best Disney Moderate Resorts

Price 🏷️

Disney Moderate Resort rates are higher than those of Value Resorts but significantly lower than Deluxe Resorts. In 2025, you can expect to pay between $260 in the low season and $505 per night during peak seasons for a Standard Room. While prices may vary based on the specific resort and room type, Moderate Resorts offer excellent value thanks to the added amenities and enhanced experiences they provide.

Properties 🏰

Moderate Resorts are among the most expansive properties at Disney World, often featuring multiple buildings or sections spread across lush landscapes and tranquil waterways. Their sprawling layouts provide a sense of privacy and seclusion, making you feel like you’re in a world of your own. Keep in mind that room location can be a significant factor, as rooms closer to dining and transportation may come at a premium.

Resort Themes 🎨

One of the most enchanting aspects of Disney Moderate Resorts are its immersive themes. From the vibrant Caribbean islands to the charming streets of New Orleans, each resort transports you to a different time and place. The themes are tastefully incorporated throughout the resort, creating a magical atmosphere without being overly kid-centric like the Value Resorts.

Transportation 🚌

All Moderate Resorts offer complimentary bus transportation to and from the theme parks and Disney Springs. Most resorts have multiple bus stops, ensuring you won’t have to walk far to catch a ride. Some resorts, like Port Orleans – Riverside and French Quarter, also offer boat transportation to Disney Springs, adding a touch of romance and adventure to your journey.

Rooms & Beds 🛏️

Moderate Resort rooms are more spacious than those at Value Resorts, typically offering two queen beds or one king bed. Most rooms can accommodate up to five guests, with some even featuring a child-size pull-out bed. The added space and upgraded bedding provide a comfortable retreat after a long day of park exploration.

Pools & Amenities 🏊‍♀️

Moderate Resorts boast feature pools with exciting extras like water slides and hot tubs, offering a refreshing escape from the Florida heat. In addition to the main pool, most resorts have several smaller, quieter pools scattered throughout the property. You’ll also find amenities such as arcades, playgrounds, and jogging trails catering to guests of all ages.

Dining 🍽️

A significant advantage of staying at a Moderate Resort is the enhanced dining options. Each resort offers a quick-service restaurant for casual meals and a table-service restaurant for sit-down dining experiences. The Cabins at Fort Wilderness even come equipped with a full kitchen, allowing you to prepare your own meals. With a variety of cuisines and atmospheres, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings.

5. Coronado Springs Resort

• Cost: In 2025, Standard Room prices range from $260 (low season) to $470+ (peak holiday season). Standard Room prices in the Gran Destino Tower range from $328 (low season) to $638 (peak holiday season).
• Theme: Spanish, Mexican, and American Southwest cultures
• Location: Animal Kingdom Resort Area
• Rooms: 1,915 rooms and suites
• Dining: Toledo, Maya Grill, Three Bridges Bar & Grill, Café Rix, Laguna Bar
• Amenities: The Dig Site pool complex, La Vida Health Club, Casa de Belleza Salon, Iguana Arcade, convention center
• Transportation: Bus service to all parks and Disney Springs
• Best For: Couples, families, and business travelers seeking a mix of leisure and upscale amenities

Overview:

Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort transports guests to a world of Spanish, Mexican, and American Southwest-inspired architecture and design. The resort is divided into three distinct sections: Casitas, Ranchos, and Cabanas, each showcasing its own unique style and charm.

One of Coronado Springs’s most striking features is the Lost City of Cibola Pool, also known as The Dig Site. This sprawling pool complex is built around a magnificent 50-foot Mayan pyramid replica and features a 123-foot-long waterslide, the largest hot tub at Walt Disney World, and the Explorer’s Playground for children.

Foodies will delight in the resort’s diverse dining options, from the Latin-inspired cuisine at Maya Grill to the rooftop tapas and sweeping views at Toledo. For a more casual dining experience, Three Bridges Bar & Grill offers open-air seating with sandwiches, shared plates, and signature cocktails.

Coronado Springs is unique among Disney Moderate Resorts in that it boasts its own convention center, making it a popular choice for business travelers. The Gran Destino Tower, added in 2019, offers enhanced amenities and accommodations, including club-level rooms and suites.

Other notable amenities include La Vida Health Club, a 24-hour fitness center, and Casa de Belleza Salon, perfect for pampering and relaxation. Bus service provides transportation to all Disney theme parks and Disney Springs, with multiple stops conveniently located throughout the resort.

What Sets It Apart:

• Deluxe-level amenities, including a spa, salon, and 24-hour fitness center
• Gran Destino Tower with club-level accommodations and stunning rooftop dining
• Expansive convention center for business travelers
• Immersive Spanish, Mexican, and American Southwest theming

Potential Drawbacks:

• Higher price point compared to other Moderate Resorts
• The sprawling layout may require more walking or internal bus use
• Convention focus may detract from the traditional Disney vacation atmosphere

The Bottom Line:

Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is a perfect blend of leisure and business, offering a taste of Spanish, Mexican, and American Southwest cultures. With its impressive pool complex, diverse dining options, deluxe-level amenities, and convenient bus transportation, this resort caters to couples, families, and business travelers alike.

While the resort’s convention focus and higher price point may not appeal to all Disney vacationers, those seeking a more upscale and culturally immersive experience will find Coronado Springs a perfect fit. The addition of the Gran Destino Tower has elevated the resort’s offerings, making it a top contender for guests looking for a “Moderate Deluxe” experience.

4. The Cabins At Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground 

• Cost: In 2025, cabins range from $485 (low season) to $920+ (peak holiday season)
• Theme: Rustic wilderness retreats
• Location: Magic Kingdom Resort Area
• Rooms: 409 cabins (sleep up to 6 adults)
• Dining: P&J’s Southern Takeout, Meadow Snack Bar, Trail’s End Restaurant
• Amenities: Full kitchen, charcoal grill, private patio, heated outdoor pools, campfire activities, pony rides, bike rentals
• Transportation: Boat service to Magic Kingdom, bus service to other Disney destinations, internal bus system within the resort
• Best For: Families or groups seeking a unique outdoor experience with modern comforts

Resort Overview:

Nestled in a serene forest setting, The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort offer a unique accommodation option that combines the rustic charm of camping with the comforts of home. These spacious cabins feature full kitchens, private patios, and room for up to six adults, making them perfect accommodations for larger families of five or six or groups looking for a secluded escape.

Each cabin provides a cozy retreat after a day of adventure, with a range of outdoor activities available right on your doorstep. Guests can enjoy campfire sing-alongs, movie nights under the stars, pony rides, fishing, and more. The resort’s heated outdoor pools and waterslides provide a refreshing break from the Florida heat.

For those seeking a truly immersive nature experience within the Disney bubble, Fort Wilderness is unmatched. The sprawling 750-acre property offers plenty of opportunities for exploration, from hiking and biking trails to horseback riding and canoeing along the scenic waterways.

When it’s time to refuel, Fort Wilderness has you covered with a variety of dining options. Grab a quick bite at P&J’s Southern Takeout, enjoy a poolside snack at Meadow Snack Bar, or savor a hearty meal at the rustic Trail’s End Restaurant.

Getting around the vast resort is a breeze with convenient boat transportation to Magic Kingdom and bus service to other Disney destinations. Some guests choose to rent golf carts for added flexibility and fun.

What Sets It Apart:

• Unique wilderness experience with modern comforts
• Spacious cabins with full kitchens and private patios
• Wide range of outdoor activities and recreation
• Secluded setting for a peaceful getaway
• One of Disney World’s dog-friendly resorts!

Potential Drawbacks:

• Higher price point compared to other Moderate Resorts
• Internal transportation can be time-consuming due to resort size
• Rustic theming may not appeal to all guests

The Bottom Line:

The Cabins at Fort Wilderness offer a unique experience for families and groups who enjoy the outdoors and the comforts of home. This resort provides spacious accommodations, on-site activities, and a secluded setting, making it a memorable escape within Disney World. However, the higher price, need for internal transportation, remote setting, and unique layout may not suit everyone. It is ranked fourth on our list due to these drawbacks, as it may not be suitable for everyone. However, for those who appreciate the freedom, creature comforts of home, and the outdoorsy environment within Disney World resort property, it may be the ideal Disney Moderate Resort. Ultimately, it comes down to your interests and goals.

3. Port Orleans Resort – Riverside 

• Cost: In 2025, Standard Room prices range from $289 (low season) to $476+ (peak holiday season). Preferred Room prices range from $367 (low season) to $548+ (peak holiday season).
• Theme: Antebellum South along the Mississippi River
• Location: Disney Springs Resort Area
• Rooms: 2,048 rooms
• Dining: Boatwright’s Dining Hall, Riverside Mill Food Court, River Roost Lounge, Muddy Rivers Pool Bar
• Amenities: Ol’ Man Island pool, five leisure pools, fishing, horse-drawn carriage rides, evening campfires, bike rentals, boat transportation to Disney Springs
• Transportation: Bus service to all parks, boat service to Disney Springs
• Best For: Couples, families, and those seeking a tranquil, scenic setting with a touch of Southern charm

Resort Overview:

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside transports guests to the charming antebellum South along the banks of the Mississippi River. The resort is divided into two distinct sections: the rustic Alligator Bayou and the stately Magnolia Bend, each offering its own unique atmosphere and accommodations.

Alligator Bayou features rustic, weathered lodges nestled among towering pine trees and lush vegetation, while Magnolia Bend showcases grand manor homes reminiscent of Southern plantation houses. The resort’s 2,048 rooms include special Royal Guest Rooms, which offer a regal experience with majestic decor and themed furnishings.

Guests can embark on a culinary journey at Boatwright’s Dining Hall, a shipyard-themed table-service restaurant serving up hearty Southern fare. For quick bites and snacks, the Riverside Mill Food Court offers a variety of options in a charming, rustic setting. The River Roost Lounge and Muddy Rivers Pool Bar provide perfect spots to unwind with a refreshing drink.

The resort’s centerpiece is Ol’ Man Island, a 3.5-acre recreation area featuring a sprawling pool with a waterslide, a fishing hole, and a playground. Five additional leisure pools are scattered throughout the property, ensuring guests are never far from a refreshing dip. Other activities include fishing, horse-drawn carriage rides, evening campfires, and bike rentals.

Transportation to the theme parks is provided by bus service, while a scenic boat ride along the Sassagoula River takes guests directly to the entertainment, dining, and shopping at Disney Springs.

What Sets It Apart:

• Beautifully landscaped, expansive property with a tranquil, scenic atmosphere
• Two distinct sections offering different themes and accommodations
• Royal Guest Rooms for a unique, themed experience
• Boat transportation to Disney Springs for a relaxing, scenic journey
• Extensive recreation options, including pools, fishing, and horse-drawn carriage rides

Potential Drawbacks:

• The resort’s sprawling layout may require more walking or internal bus use
• Some areas may be further from dining and transportation options
• The themed atmosphere may be too understated for guests seeking a more immersive Disney experience

The Bottom Line:

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside offers a delightful blend of Southern charm, tranquility, and Disney magic. The resort’s picturesque setting, diverse dining options, and wide range of activities make it an ideal choice for families, couples, and other adults going to Disney World without kids or just anyone group seeking a peaceful retreat. While the expansive layout may require a bit more walking, the beauty of the resort’s landscaping and the convenience of boat transportation to Disney Springs more than make up for it. With its combination of rustic charm and stately elegance, Port Orleans-Riverside provides a unique and memorable Moderate Resort experience.

2. Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter 

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter

• Cost: In 2025, Standard Room prices range from $289 (low season) to $476+ (peak holiday season).
• Theme: New Orleans French Quarter
• Location: Disney Springs Resort Area
• Rooms: 1,008 rooms
• Dining: Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory, Mardi Grogs Pool Bar, Scat Cat’s Club – Lounge
• Amenities: Doubloon Lagoon pool with water slide, sea serpent water play area, playground, horse-drawn carriage rides, evening entertainment, boat transportation to Disney Springs
• Transportation: Bus service to all parks, boat service to Disney Springs
• Best For: Couples, adults, and those seeking a charming, intimate resort experience with easy access to Disney Springs

Resort Overview:

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter is a charming, intimate resort that transports guests to the colorful, vibrant streets of New Orleans’ French Quarter. With its cobblestone paths, gas lamps, wrought-iron balconies, and lush landscaping along the Sassagoula River, this resort offers a romantic, immersive experience that particularly appeals to adults and couples.

The resort’s 1,008 rooms are situated in seven three-story buildings, each featuring elegant facades and intricate ironwork reminiscent of the iconic French Quarter architecture. While the resort doesn’t offer suites, guests can enjoy access to the amenities and dining options at the nearby Port Orleans – Riverside.

Guests can savor a taste of the Big Easy at the Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory, a quick-service restaurant serving up New Orleans-inspired dishes like gumbo and beignets. The Mardi Grogs Pool Bar offers refreshing drinks and snacks, while Scat Cat’s Club – Lounge features live jazz music and Southern cocktails.

The Doubloon Lagoon pool is the centerpiece of the resort’s recreation offerings, with its exciting water slide and sea serpent water play area. Guests can also enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides, evening entertainment, and a scenic boat ride along the Sassagoula River to Disney Springs.

As a couple, my wife and I have stayed at Port Orleans – French Quarter several times before having children, and we always had a wonderful experience. The resort’s quaint atmosphere, charming architecture, and romantic ambiance make it the perfect Disney getaway for adults looking for a more tranquil experience.

What Sets It Apart:

• Intimate, small-scale resort with a charming, romantic atmosphere
• Immersive New Orleans French Quarter theming throughout the resort
• Scenic boat transportation to Disney Springs for a unique travel experience
• Easy access to the amenities and dining at Port Orleans-Riverside
• Perfect for couples and adults seeking a peaceful retreat

Potential Drawbacks:

• Limited dining options on-site (but easy access to Port Orleans – Riverside)
• Fewer kid-focused amenities compared to other Moderate Resorts
• Theming may be too subtle for guests expecting a more overt Disney experience

The Bottom Line:

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter offers a charming and romantic escape to New Orleans, making it an ideal choice for couples and adults seeking a more intimate Disney experience. The resort’s smaller scale, immersive theming, and scenic boat rides to Disney Springs set it apart from other Moderate Resorts. While it may not have the same range of kid-focused amenities as some other options, its peaceful atmosphere and easy access to the offerings at Port Orleans – Riverside make it a top pick for those looking for a bit of tranquility amidst the Disney magic. My wife and I always find the theming here a bit more interesting than Riverside, so although similar, this is the Port Orleans we like better.

1. Caribbean Beach Resort 

• Cost: In 2025, Standard Room prices range from $268 (low season) to $505+ (peak holiday season). Preferred Room prices range from $390 (low season) to $583+ (peak holiday season).
• Theme: Caribbean Islands
• Location: Epcot Resort Area
• Rooms: 2,112 rooms
• Dining: Sebastian’s Bistro, Centertown Market, Banana Cabana Pool Bar, Spyglass Grill
• Amenities: Fuentes del Morro pool, six leisure pools, Pirate Rooms, Caribbean Cay island, playground, sand volleyball, bike rentals, jogging trail
• Transportation: Bus service to all parks, Disney Skyliner access to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios
• Best For: Families seeking a tropical paradise with plenty of activities and convenient access to the parks

Resort Overview:

Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort is a vibrant, tropical oasis that transports guests to the colorful Caribbean islands. Divided into six villages named after Caribbean islands—Aruba, Barbados, Jamaica, Martinique, Trinidad North, and Trinidad South—the resort surrounds the stunning 45-acre Barefoot Bay lake.

The resort offers 2,112 rooms, including special Pirate-themed rooms that are perfect for families with young swashbucklers. The villages are connected by a scenic promenade that winds around the lake, offering opportunities for walking, jogging, and biking. At the center of Barefoot Bay is Caribbean Cay, a lush island featuring a children’s playground and picnic area.

Caribbean Beach offers plentiful and diverse dining options, from table-service dining with Caribbean-inspired cuisine at Sebastian’s Bistro to quick-service meals at Centertown Market. The Banana Cabana Pool Bar and Spyglass Grill are perfect spots for refreshing drinks and snacks.

The resort’s main pool, Fuentes del Morro, is a destination in itself. It is themed after a Spanish fortress and features water slides, cannons, and a shipwreck play area. Each village also has its own quiet pool for a more relaxed swimming experience.

Transportation is a breeze, with bus service to all Disney parks and access to the Disney Skyliner, offering quick aerial trips to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios.

In 2022, my family had an incredible stay at Caribbean Beach. The resort’s lush landscaping and laid-back atmosphere made us feel like we were on a tropical island getaway. The kids loved the pool and the pirate-themed rooms, while my wife and I enjoyed unwinding with drinks at the Banana Cabana. The convenient Skyliner access made our park days a breeze, and we loved coming back to the resort’s peaceful ambiance after a day of Disney excitement.

What Sets It Apart:

• Immersive Caribbean theme with lush landscaping and vibrant colors
• Unique Pirate Rooms for a one-of-a-kind experience
• Disney Skyliner access for quick, convenient trips to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios
• Wide range of dining options, from table service to quick bites
• Expansive pool areas with a Spanish fortress theme and village leisure pools

Potential Drawbacks:

• The resort’s size may require more walking or internal bus use
• Some rooms may be located further from dining and transportation hubs
• The sprawling layout may feel less intimate than that of smaller resorts

The Bottom Line:

Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort captures the essence of a tropical paradise, offering an immersive Caribbean experience that appeals to both kids and adults. With its diverse dining options, exciting pool areas, and convenient access to the parks via the Skyliner, it’s no wonder this resort tops our list of the best Moderate Resorts at Disney World.

The resort’s stunning Fuentes del Morro pool, lush landscaping, and laid-back atmosphere create the perfect setting for a magical family vacation. The special Pirate Rooms add an extra layer of Disney magic, while the peaceful villages offer a tranquil retreat after a day of park-hopping.

Whether you’re lounging on the beaches of Barefoot Bay, exploring the Caribbean Cay island, or soaring above the resort on the Skyliner, Caribbean Beach offers an unforgettable Disney experience that keeps families coming back year after year.

My family thinks Caribbean Beach Resort is the best Disney Moderate Resort overall, especially for families like ours.

Ready To Book Your Moderate Resort at Disney World?

We hope our Best Disney Moderate Resorts page will assist you in finding accommodations for your Disney World vacation. For more useful Disney World information, please visit our other pages, including the following articles: