Best Disney World Resort Hotels For Teens: Our Most Magical Picks
Wondering which Walt Disney World resort hotels are good for teenagers? Check out our tried and true favorite hotels on property for the big kids in the family.
You don’t have to be far into planning a Disney World vacation to realize there’s nothing Minnie about Disney’s resort game.
The perimeter of the Happiest Place On Earth extends well beyond the parks. The pixie dust, it turns out, is sprinkled on the truly extraordinary hotels on property too.
Walt Disney World Resort hotels offer tons to do, amazing restaurants, and fantastic theming.
We love them so much that we’ve stayed in almost every resort hotel on Walt Disney World property. We’ve gone back again and again to a few of our favorites, especially as our kids have gotten older.
So, mirror, mirror on the wall, which is the fairest resort hotel of all? It all depends on a few Mickey-shaped details, especially if you have teens in tow.
Disney’s All Star Music offers roomy accommodations with a value price tag. (Photo courtesy AllEars.net)
10. Disney’s All-Star Music Resort
If your goal is to travel like a prince or princess but not spend like royalty, Disney value resorts are a great choice.
The lower price tag means value resorts do not have extra amenities. You won’t find onsite hot tubs or full-service restaurants. And the layout is more like a motel in terms of no interior hallways.
But, Disney World’s value resorts still have lots to brag about, like great pools and super fun resort activities. Free bus transportation is provided to infinity and beyond (well, at least to the parks.) Convenient quick-service dining offers plenty of family-friendly food choices. And the whimsical theming that includes huge, oversized icons is fantastic.
What sets Disney’s All-Star Music apart from its sports, pop culture and movie-themed counterparts, are its family suites.
These layouts are the least expensive suites on property.
Everyone will rest like Sleeping Beauty thanks to accommodations that sleeps six in two separate rooms. Feeding hungry teens is no problem in the full kitchen. And two bathrooms make getting ready for the parks, or ready for bedtime, easier.
Why we love Disney’s All-Star Music for teens:
Least expensive suites on Walt Disney World property
Suites feature 2 bathrooms making getting ready easier
Fun, musical theming
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All Coronado Springs room have access to to the Mayan pyramid themed pool.
9. Gran Destino Tower At Disney’s Coronado Springs
Although Rapunzel wanted to escape from her famous digs, not every Disney-built tower elicits the same response.
Gran Destino Tower is the 16-story addition to Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort. It encompasses 545 guest rooms, including 50 suites, some which offer club level access. The tower provides a more upscale setting than the larger resort it’s housed in, while still offering close proximity to amenities.
All of those amenities are tucked into the second largest hotel footprint at Walt Disney World. So it gives independent minded teens room to explore without leaving the grounds. Guests can enjoy pools, a volleyball court, an arcade, and the largest hot tub on Disney property, among other spots.
This hotel choice also provides access to no less than ten restaurants, lounges, or drink spots. Toledo’s is an even-if-you’re-not-staying-there-worthy rooftop Spanish tapas restaurant. Rix’s Sports Bar & Grill has dozens of tv’s so no one misses their favorite game. And El Mercado de Coronado has a great atmosphere offering tons of choices in quick-bite options.
The hotel blends Spanish, Mexican, and Southwest American influences styles to create a gorgeous space. Case in point: the 50-foot tall Mayan pyramid themed pool.
One of the best parts is that Gran Destino Tower is in Disney’s moderate hotel category. So rooms and suites come with a lower price tag than comparable deluxe resort options.
Why Gran Destino Tower at Disney’s Coronado Springs is a Great Resort for Teens:
Moderately priced, well updated suites
Lots of choices at the quick-service food court
Great sit-down restaurants
Well themed pool with volleyball court
Room to roam throughout the grounds, although staying at the tower means you’re central to all the amenities
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The Four Seasons Orlando has a pool even the most hard-to-please teen is sure to love.
8. Four Seasons Resort Orlando
If true love’s kiss can only be matched by a luxury vacation, Four Seasons Orlando might be your Prince Charming.
This hotel option is for vacationers who want a well-known luxury brand experience with Disney benefits. It’s a little less mouse-shaped than our other choices. So it’s for those of you who I’m still trying to convince that yes - you really do want a Disney vacation!!! (A girl’s gotta have goals, right?)
When they’re not at the parks, teens staying here can hang out at The Hideout. They’ll find video games, a billiards table, and an ice cream shop.
Teens will absolutely love the sports courts and the five-acre water park. The latter features two water slides and a lazy river.
The on-site spa even features treatments tailored to the younger set. And seasonal events like springtime tea, summertime pool parties, and holiday dinners cater to everyone in the family.
A Disney Planning Center in the lobby makes for stress-free planning. Complimentary transportation to Disney parks and early park entry are big bonuses too.
This is also the most expensive hotel on our list though. So it’s best suited for those who plan for some non-park time so they can utilize the amenities.
This Hotel Choice Is Best For Teens And Families WHo:
Don’t want over-the-top Disney
Plan to spend a full day or more at the hotel
Want a luxury brand
Prioritize spacious rooms
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Bolder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge evokes national park vibes.
7. Bolder Ridge Villas At Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge has long been a fan favorite of those who love its rustic charm. Christmastime in particular is a popular time to come to the resort. Beautiful decorations, including a massive tree, fill the multi-story lobby.
Another reason to love this resort during the holidays or any time of the year came about in 2017. The Copper Creek Cabins at Wilderness Lodge were opened. Then in 2020, Bolder Ridge Canyons were officially opened at the lodge as well.
Both are great options for families but we especially like Bolder Ridge. It embraces the Pacific Northwest theming in a quieter part of the resort. It also has deluxe studios that sleep five, in addition to larger villas, and refurbished rooms.
The theme of the entire resort hotel provides a respite from the excitement of the parks. Even the pool area is nestled in lush greenery like a national park. One restaurant, Whispering Canyon Cafe, continues the theme with an extra touch of whimsy. (Hint: be sure to ask for ketchup here.) Another restaurant, Artist’s Point, reminds teens they’re never too old for a character meal.
This resort has a few trade-offs that work really well for some families with teens. It’s one of the closest hotels to Magic Kingdom. Yet, guests are not able to walk or monorail to the parks like at some other resort hotels. But, this deluxe resort is often the most affordable in its class. In addition to bus service to all four parks, guests can travel by boat to Magic Kingdom and the Contemporary.
Bolder Ridge Villas At Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is great for teens because:
It’s priced lower than other Magic Kingdom area villas.
There’s access to unique dining options.
The boat to the Magic Kingdom is a nice option.
The Pacific Northwest theme is a great contrast to the busyness of the parks.
Many rooms have recently been refurbished.
One-bedroom villas and larger have washers and dryers
The murphy-style bed is more comfortable than a sofa bed.
Rooms are typically larger than Copper Creek Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge.
The pool area has a well executed theme.
As a deluxe resort, it has multiple pools, a waterslide, concierge services, and club level rooms.
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The Grand Floridian’s charm delivers every time. (Photo courtesy AllEars.net)
6. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort And Spa
The next Walt Disney World resort hotel on our list is the grand dame of them all. It’s the OG of all of the period themed resorts on property. It was designed to be Disney World’s flagship hotel when it opened in 1988.
And that status hasn’t changed. That signature red gabled roof has embodied opulence since.
Teens who appreciate the fancier things in life are hard pressed not to notice the luxurious feel of the hotel. Disney’s Grand Floridian has the most high-end esthetic of any resort hotel on property.
The Victorian theme bodes well for the elegant theme. Subtle nods to Mary Poppins are combined with things reminiscent of the grand beach resorts of the past.
Being able to walk, monorail, or boat to Magic Kingdom is a huge bonus adding to the hotel’s appeal. And like other deluxe resort hotels, club level rooms are available. These provide access to a private lounge with food, drinks, and concierge services offered throughout the day.
Another perk of being so close to the Magic Kingdom is the ability to see fireworks from the hotel. Some guest rooms have firework views and common areas like the boat dock and courtyard pools do as well. Narcoossee's restaurant, which is in the hotel, even provides a view with the music piped in.
Reviews for Grand Floridian’s newly updated rooms are overwhelmingly positive but the posh lobby is undergoing refurbishments in 2025. So you may want to put off a stay until the reimagining is complete.
Why we love Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa for Teens:
Beautiful, elegant theming big kids may appreciate
Monorail access to Magic Kingdom, Epcot and more resort hotel restaurants
Walking path and boat access to Magic Kingdom
Views of Magic Kingdom fireworks
As a deluxe resort, it has pools with waterslides, concierge services, and club level rooms
One-bedroom villas and larger have washers and dryers
Boat access to Disney’s Polynesian Resort, which also has great restaurant options
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Disney’s Boardwalk Villas is nestled on Disney’s turn-of-the-century themed Boardwalk.
5. Disney’s Boardwalk Villas
We think this Disney’s Boardwalk Villas are one of the most underrated resort hotels at Disney.
As a deluxe resort, it has all the bells and whistles. It has fun turn-of-the-century Atlantic City and Coney Island boardwalk theming. It features a pool with a slide and hot tub.
And it’s all nestled in a fantastic location.
Entertainment options and fun restaurants, like Beaches and Cream, as well as more upscale options, like Flying Fish, are just steps away.
Also steps away - two parks. The World Showcase entrance to Epcot is only about a 5 minute walk. Disney’s Hollywood Studios is a 15-minute walk (or boat ride) away.
Villas offer space for stretching out since rooms come in studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom varieties. As with other Disney villas, these also have full kitchens and washers and dryers.
The part that’s worth melting for? Disney’s Boardwalk Villas are often also priced a little lower than some of its deluxe villa, prime location counterparts.
Why Disney’s Boardwalk Inn Villas are perfect for Families with Teens:
Fun theming
Easy access to Epcot and Hollywood Studios
Similar location and available room types as Disney’s Beach Club Villas but priced lower
As a deluxe resort, it has pools with waterslides, concierge services, and club level rooms
One-bedroom villas and larger have washers and dryers
Located in Disney’s Boardwalk, with access to additional restaurants and entertainment
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Disney’s Art of Animation features theming based on four Disney movie favorites (photo courtesy HereWithTheEars.com)
4. Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
This resort hotel should be a class all on its own. It offers so much more than you might expect of a value resort.
Guests chose between rooms designed after some of the best Disney movies. Little Mermaid, Finding Nemo, Cars, and Lion King are all featured. Each area feels like walking on to the set of that particular movie. So even though my Nemo’s might not be guppies anymore, they still absolutely adore the theming. This was the stuff their childhood was made of, so it’s hard not to get a little nostalgic.
At the Cars pool, you can cool your engines at the cutest traffic-cone themed cabanas this side of Radiator Springs. One of Art of Animation’s other swim spots, the Big Blue Pool, is the largest pool at any Disney resort hotel.
We also love the hotel’s massive food court, which is a big bonus for teen-sized appetites.
The fact that you can now access the hotel via the Disney Skyliner is huge too.
Those suites we keep raving about? Art of Animation has them at what we would call value-plus pricing. The Murphy style beds might even convince your teen he or she isn’t too old for an nightlight. They feature the cutest Disney art headboards with nightlights overhead.
Why Older Kids Still Love Disney’s Art Of Animation:
Fans of Disney’s animated movies featured at the hotel will love the theming.
The Disney Skyliner provides access to Hollywood Studios and Epcot.
The Disney Skyliner also provides access to Disney’s Riviera Resort and Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort. Both have good dining options.
Murphy beds are fun and more comfortable than sofa beds.
Suite layouts are perfect for families with six or fewer in their group who want more space.
Two bathrooms makes getting ready easier.
Suites are less expensive than those at moderate and deluxe resorts.
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Bay Lake Tower is connected to Disney’s Contemporary Resort via a Skybridge.
3. Bay Lake Tower At Disney’s Contemporary Resort
You might think that mid-afternoon, park day breaks are only for toddler-aged princes and princesses.
But, we’ve found that teens appreciate some downtime too. And said breaks are sometimes just as important considering teens are often all-in on late night Disney fun.
While we’re at it, here’s another Pinocchio-esque myth: Magic Kingdom is geared toward young kids.
Actually, Magic Kingdom is still the park in which we log our longest Disney days.
That makes Disney’s Contemporary Resorts a win-win for families with teens thanks to walkable access to Magic Kingdom. It makes Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort a win-win-win thanks to single and multi-bedroom villas.
All the amenities of Disney’s Contemporary Resort are available to guests of Bay Lake Tower. So families have access to things like on-site dining and the monorail (and the restaurants at other hotels on the monorail). California Grill is one such special occasion restaurant where diners can enjoy views of the fireworks.
Even some of the things The Contemporary gets a bit lower marks for are negated a bit when you travel with teens. For example, the pool isn’t quite as themed as some other properties (although rooms still have great Incredibles nods). But teenagers may not mind this now that they’re more Violet-aged than Jack-Jack aged.
Why Bay Lake Tower At Disney’s Contemporary Resort Makes the list of best Resorts for teens:
Roomier accommodations than Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Short walk to Magic Kingdom
Monorail access to Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and additional restaurants
Great dining options
Fun theming
Murphy beds have replaced sofa beds
One-bedroom villas and larger villas have washers and dryers
Updated rooms
As a deluxe resort, it has a pool with a waterslide, concierge services, and club level rooms
Multiple firework viewing areas
Some rooms have firework and Cinderella Castle views
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Animal Kingdom Lodge provides one of the most unique stays on Disney property.
2. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Villas - Kadani Village
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge not only makes lists of the best Disney resort hotels. You’ll often also find it in places like Travel And Leisure’s nationwide list of reader’s favorite resorts for families.
We’re such big fans we’ve even taken a non-park visit to Disney World to stay here.
This truly unique hotel brings out the Mufasa in us all with the chance to stay in our very own Pridelands. Savannah view rooms feature balconies overlooking the very spot where zebras, giraffes, and other African animals roam.
Guests throughout the resort can see animals from a variety of other viewing spots throughout the property. Cast members from the countries where the animals originate answer questions about the over 200 inhabitants of the Savannah.
This resort also has gorgeous African decor and outstanding restaurant options. Boma and Jiko are both restaurants that offer African cuisine while the quick service option has a various cuisines.
Combine animal encounters with villas at Kadani Village at Animal Kingdom Lodge and it’s like Fairy Godmother herself has arrived. Villas allow everyone in the family a little space of their own.
If there’s one downside, it’s that bus transportation is the only way to the parks. However, even that has an upside. This resort hotel option is priced a little lower than some other deluxe resorts to account for that.
What we love about Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge - Kadani Village for teens:
Opportunity to see animals from rooms, common areas, and restaurants
Ability to interact with Cultural Representatives and learn about the animals
Unique and well-done African theming
One-bedroom villas and larger have washers and dryers
Culturally immersive restaurants with other options for less adventurous eaters
Spacious villas
As a deluxe resort, it has multiple pools with waterslides, concierge services, and club level rooms
Guests can participate in Starlight Safari, a Disney Enchanting Extra, onsite
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The ship-wrecked themed slide is fun for all ages at Disney’s Beach Club.
1. Disney’s Beach Club Villas
It’s not just Dory who will want to “just keep swimming” at this Walt Disney World Resort hotel.
Disney’s Beach Club Resort And Villas has arguably the best pool at any Disney resort hotel. It even has its own name - Stormalong Bay. It features a 3-acre mini-water park with sandy-bottom pool, a lazy river, and a shipwreck-themed water slide.
The Beach Club Resort is located on the Disney Boardwalk and just a 10-minute walk or short boat ride to Epcot. Hollywood Studios can be accessed via the Skyliner or a 20-minute walk. And all those boardwalk restaurants? They’re within walking distance too.
The Beach Club theme is perfect for teens too. The New England beach decor is laid back, quaint, and pretty.
Villas offer full kitchens, washers and dryers, and extra room for growing teens.
Why Disney’s Beach Club Villas is the best resort for families with teenagers:
Stormalong Bay offers plenty to do on a pool day
Fun, seaside village theme
Easy access to Epcot and Hollywood Studios
As a deluxe resort, it has pools with waterslides, concierge services, and club level rooms
Located in Disney’s Boardwalk, with access to additional restaurants and entertainment
One-bedroom villas and larger have washers and dryers
