Disney’s Best Deluxe Resorts for Families with Young Children
When you're planning a Disney vacation with little ones, grandparents, or the whole crew, where you stay matters just as much as what you do in the parks. Disney’s Deluxe Resorts offer extra space, amazing amenities, and the convenience families need to truly relax and reconnect.
Here’s my personal ranking of the top 5 Deluxe Resorts for families with young children, based on location, family-friendly features, and overall magic-making potential:
The fireworks view from the Contemporary Resort can’t be beat! If you have little ones who go to bed early, you can sit out on the balcony and watch the fireworks!
#1 Disney’s Contemporary Resort
✨ Best for: Being thisclose to Magic Kingdom
This is my family’s absolute favorite Disney resort. Nothing beats walking out your door and being at Magic Kingdom in five minutes flat. The Contemporary is a modern icon, with monorail service, spacious rooms, and jaw-dropping views of Cinderella’s Castle or Bay Lake. Families love the convenience (especially with strollers or napping kiddos), and the dining is top-tier.
Why families love it:
Walk to Magic Kingdom in 5 minutes
Large rooms perfect for spreading out
Chef Mickey’s character dining = an instant hit
#2 Disney’s Beach Club & Yacht Club Resorts
✨ Best for: Pool time and EPCOT access
These sister resorts share the best pool on Disney property—Stormalong Bay, a mini water park with a lazy river, sand-bottom pool, and waterslides. They’re also just a short stroll to EPCOT and a 15-20 minute walk or quick boat ride to Hollywood Studios. Yacht Club leans more polished; Beach Club feels a bit more casual and kid-friendly.
Why families love it:
Epic pool experience
Walk to EPCOT’s World Showcase for kid-approved snacks
Great location for park-hopping families
The grounds at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort are absolutely gorgeous
#3 Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
✨Best for: Laid-back island vibes + monorail convenience
This fan-favorite resort has a tropical, vacation-y feel that instantly puts families at ease. The Lava Pool is a kid favorite (especially the amazing splash pad and slide for younger kids!) and the location on the monorail loop makes Magic Kingdom mornings easy. Don’t miss the ‘Ohana breakfast with Stitch or watching fireworks from the beach in your flip-flops. My daughter calls this the “Moana hotel.”
Why families love it:
Monorail + boat access to Magic Kingdom
Spacious rooms great for families
Fireworks on the beach = bucket list moment
#4 Disney’s Riviera Resort
✨Best for: Skyliner access and European-inspired elegance
Riviera is Disney’s newest Deluxe Resort, and it’s perfect for families who want style and convenience. With its sleek, modern rooms, a quieter atmosphere, and direct access to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios via the Skyliner, it’s a hidden gem for savvy families.
Why families love it:
Quick, fun access to two parks via the Skyliner
Spacious villa options = ideal for families
Amazing dining and a calm, upscale vibe
At Disney’s animal Kingdom Lodge you can look at your window and see wild animals!
#5 Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
✨ Best for: Wildly unique experiences and wow-worthy views
Where else can you wake up to giraffes outside your window? This resort is a dream for animal lovers and families looking for something totally different. The rooms at Kidani Village and Jambo House are spacious, and the cultural experiences and dining are standout. The one downside is the bus-only transportation, but if that doesn’t bother you, the theming here is A+!
Why families love it:
Incredible savanna views
Super chill, immersive atmosphere
Great for slower-paced days in between park hopping
Ready to Pick Your Perfect Resort?
Each of these Deluxe Resorts brings something special to the table—whether it’s walking-distance convenience, amazing pools, or once-in-a-lifetime views. Not sure which one is right for your crew? That’s where I come in!
Let’s chat about your family’s style and travel needs, and I’ll help you find the perfect place to rest your Mickey ears at night. ✨