You may have noticed my last Park Wise didn’t appear as usual, and that’s because I was hard at work researching for this very article!  Usually traveling with extended family or friends, our crew tends to end up in deluxe resorts or villas due to the space factor.  The boy and I decided to hit the World for the Coolest Summer Ever kick-off and to bid farewell to our current set of annual passes.  With just the two of us, this was the perfect time to try out what the moderates have to offer.

Caribbean Beach

A rambling resort, Caribbean Beach puts you right in the middle of island fun!  Differing from most resorts, the check-in desk is basically a stand alone building with Old Port Royale, further inside the resort, offering a food court, as well as table service at Shutters, gift shop, recreation and a super lively pool area.  Beach spots are sprinkled around the resort if you feel the need to kick back and relax.  The biggest concern I hear from guests is the sheer size of the resort is daunting.  There are several internal bus stops which can add time to your travel if you’re relying on Disney transportation.  Definitely something to keep in mind when planning your day.

Get Park Wise: Have a pirate in your crew?  Caribbean Beach is a great option with its Pirates of the Caribbean themed rooms.  A kids-only pirate cruise also departs from Barefoot Bay right in the heart of Caribbean Beach!

Coronado Springs

Maybe you’re feeling more of a south of the border vibe?  Coronado Springs has you covered!  Surrounding the gorgeous Lago Dorado, Coronado Springs steps it up a notch above the other moderates, in my opinion.  Boasting a food court and table service, Maya Grill, this conference resort also offers a great lounge, as well as a couple outdoor spots for libations and light snacks.  The Dig Site also happens to be one of the coolest-looking pools on property with its Mayan ruins-turned-water-fun.

 

Get Park Wise: Consider upgrading to a business class room at Coronado Springs!  The only moderate resort with this option, business guests receive upgraded beds, toiletries and a preferred location, as well as access to a small lounge for a continental breakfast and evening snacks.

Port Orleans

Port Orleans boasts two sister resorts, Riverside and French Quarter.  Riverside is a huge fan favorite among my clients.  It is a sprawling resort with a distinct southern charm both on the rustic bayou and in those gorgeous mansions, which are home to Royal Rooms, fit for a princess.  The size, though, can pose issues at the end of a long day in the parks, especially if you’re carrying a child in the limp noodle stage.  Preferred rooms are available closer to the lobby and transportation.  If you have your own transportation, parking may be available near your room, but if it’s not, keep this in mind when weighing whether or not to tote your own stroller or rent in the parks.  Riverside offers delicious dining at Boatwright’s, a table service restaurant, as well as varied options in the food court.

Get Park Wise: Riverside, French Quarter and Downtown Disney/Disney Springs are all connected via boat service on the Sassagoula River.  At the Riverside dock, you’ll also find a marina with water vehicles for rent.

French Quarter evokes the fun of Bourbon Street (of course, in a G-rated fashion) in a much smaller resort than its sister.  The size alone gives French Quarter the edge for us.  It’s much quicker to get around from pool to lobby/food court to dock to room.  Guests of French Quarter are welcome to use the amenities over at Riverside, as well.  A food court, and most importantly – fabulous beignets, are available at French Quarter, but there is no table service option, but remember, you’re just a boat ride away from Boatwright’s and all that Downtown Disney to offer.

Fort Wilderness Cabins

While there is some back and forth on what the cabins should be categorized as, I like them as a moderate.  These are a nice option for larger families, as they sleep six.  They can also help ease up on that dining budget with a full kitchen and outdoor grill.  While the good-sized kitchen offers plenty of storage, we did find that the bedroom lacking in that department.  If you’re willing to store your clothes in the pantry, you might be ok.  You’ll also have an internal bus system here that can add some travel time if you’re sans automobile.  I’ll chat a little bit more about Fort Wilderness itself when we gab about values, but I will say that it’s really a vacation within your Disney vacation with all of the recreation and entertainment options at the campground.

Which do you think are the best Walt Disney World moderate resorts?  Any tips for going middle of the road at Walt Disney World?

 

What’s your favorite Walt Disney World Moderate Resort? 

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