Not all of us have a traditional family of four, with two parents and two kids. Some of us have more than two children. Some of us have a grandparent or other family member living with us. Or, some of us, when we travel, feel the more the merrier.
Typical guest rooms can accommodate four people. At Disney World, there is something for everyone. Yes, most are set up for four people. But there are certain resorts that can handle everyone in your party. Just remember, if a member of your family is age 3 or younger and can stay in a pack ‘n’ play, they don’t factor in the count. For example, mom, dad, brother, sister and 2-year-old toddler count as four people, and you can stay just about anywhere. It’s when baby turns 4 that things get tricky.
Value Resorts
You can always request adjoining rooms. But this means paying for two rooms, which can be cost prohibitive. Art of Animation, the newest Value resort, and All-Star Music Resort have family suites that can accommodate up to 6 guests. The other big plus is that each suite has two, count ’em, TWO bathrooms. This amenity alone makes the expense worth it. Speaking of expense, you need to do your homework if cost is an issue. Many times, a moderate resort (as long as you have 5 guests) will be cheaper than a family suite at the Value Resorts.
Moderate Resort – sleeps up to 6
Camping at Walt Disney World is not camping as long as you stay at the Fort Wilderness Cabins. With a bedroom, bathroom, fully equipped kitchen and a private patio with BBQ it feels more like home. But with maid service. Daily.
Moderate Resort – sleeps up to 5
Both Port Orleans Riverside and Caribbean Beach Resort have rooms that can accommodate up to 5 guests. The rooms have two queen beds and a trundle bed. Just one bathroom, but cheaper than the suites at the Value Resorts.
Deluxe Resorts – sleeps 5 or more
All of the Deluxe Resorts have rooms that can handle 5 or more guests. These include Beach Club Resort, Boardwalk Inn, Contemporary Resort, Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Polynesian Village Resort, Wilderness Lodge and Yacht Club Resort. The rooms are a bit bigger than the Moderate and Value Resorts and the pools are equipped with water slides.
Deluxe Resorts – sleeps up to 9
Each Deluxe has a separate section with deluxe villas that accommodate up to 9 guests. Amenities include 1 or 2 bedrooms, full kitchens and washer, and dryer. The villas can be found at: Bay Lake Tower at Contemporary Resort, Animal Kingdom Jambo House and Kidani Village, Beach Club, Boardwalk, Old Key West Resort, Saratoga Springs Resort, Grand Floridian and Wilderness Lodge. There are also stand-alone “Treehouse Villas” located at Saratoga Springs. These offer the most space with 3 bedrooms, granite countertops, and flat-screen TVs.
For our family of 5, our favorite options are Port Orleans Riverside and Beach Club Resort. But everyone has their own favorite. And their own special needs. Do you need a kitchen in the AM for a more substantial in-room breakfast? Washer and dryer for your toddler’s (or teen’s) 3 outfits per day? An amazing pool to entertain your kids?
No worries. There’s the perfect resort for every family at Walt Disney World.
