Disney Resort Options for Families of Five or More: Choosing the Best Option for You

Planning a Disney vacation is often a mix of excitement and overwhelm, especially when you’re a family of five. I remember the first time my family faced this dilemma. Growing up, my parents would take my brothers and I to Walt Disney World every couple of years. Everything changed when my third brother came along and we became a family of 6. Suddenly, we didn’t fit neatly into Disney’s standard hotel rooms anymore.

I still vividly recall my parents’ frustration as they tried to find accommodations that could handle our growing family without sacrificing comfort—or breaking the bank. So our regular trips came to an abrupt halt.  But here’s the good news: Disney has come a long way since then. Today, there are options galore for larger families, and I’m here to share what I’ve learned so you can skip the stress and dive straight into the magic.

The Struggle is Real for Families of Five

If you’ve ever tried to plan a vacation as a family of five, you know it can feel like you’re playing a game of Tetris. You try to fit everyone into a space designed for four, only to realize it’s impossible—or at least wildly uncomfortable. Add in the desire for some privacy, a touch of luxury, or even just an extra bathroom, and suddenly, it feels like you’re asking for the moon.

Disney, thankfully, understands this challenge. They’ve expanded their resort offerings to accommodate families of all sizes, and the variety of options available now makes it easier than ever to find something that fits your unique needs.

The Moderate Resort Solution: A Nostalgic Start

Let’s start with the moderate resorts, which offer a solution for families who need just a little extra space. Resorts like Caribbean Beach and Port Orleans (specifically the Alligator Bayou section) have rooms with what Disney calls “fifth sleeper pull-downs.” These pull-down beds are perfect for kids under ten—they’re cozy, fun, and just the right size for a little one to crash after a long day of magic.

I have to admit, these rooms take me back to my childhood. They remind me of those early trips when space was tight, but the excitement of being at Disney made up for any inconvenience. While these rooms are cost-effective, they can feel a little snug, especially if your kids are older or you’re traveling with a grandparent or family friend.

Stepping It Up: Family Suites

For families whose children are a little older and need a little more space and privacy (and a second bathroom—hallelujah), family suites became a game-changer. The Art of Animation Resort, with its whimsical themes and vibrant colors, is a great favorite. Imagine walking into a suite where the walls come alive with characters from The Lion King or Finding Nemo. It felt like stepping into a storybook.

These suites not only offer a master bedroom with a queen bed but also have a living area with a Murphy bed and a sofa bed. But the real star of the show? Two bathrooms. For anyone who’s ever waited in line for the shower while trying to make it to rope drop, you know what a luxury this is.

A Rustic Retreat: Cabins at Fort Wilderness

For families who crave something a little different, the cabins at Fort Wilderness offer a unique option. Picture this: a cozy cabin tucked away in the woods, complete with a full kitchen and enough space to sleep six. There’s a queen bed, bunk beds, and a pull-out sofa, making it ideal for families who love the idea of a rustic escape.

I’ll be honest, though—the single bathroom in the cabins can feel like a drawback if you’re traveling with teenagers who take forever to get ready (or brothers who monopolize the space). Still, the charm of the setting, coupled with the chance to cook meals and enjoy the great outdoors, makes this a great option for the right family.

A Taste of Luxury: Deluxe Resorts

If your idea of a dream vacation includes a touch of luxury, Disney’s deluxe resorts might be calling your name. Some of these resorts offer larger rooms with twin daybeds that comfortably sleep five, along with all the upscale amenities you’d expect—think luxurious pools, fine dining, and prime locations close to the parks.

For splurge-worthy trips, consider Disney’s Beach Club Resort. I still remember the feeling of walking into that elegant lobby, knowing we were just a short stroll from EPCOT. The rooms were spacious enough to give everyone a bit of breathing room, and the convenience of being so close to the parks made the whole trip feel effortlessly magical.

The one downside? Most deluxe resort rooms still only have one bathroom, which can be a bit of a juggling act for families used to having more.

The Ultimate Flexibility: Disney Vacation Club Villas

Finally, for families who want the ultimate in flexibility, Disney Vacation Club (DVC) Villas are a fantastic option. These accommodations range from studios (similar to moderate resort rooms) to sprawling two-bedroom villas that can sleep up to nine people.

One of my favorite stays was at Bay Lake Tower, right next to Magic Kingdom. We had a one-bedroom villa with a king bed, a pull-out sofa, and a pull-out chair, plus a full kitchen and two bathrooms. Having the extra space to spread out—and a kitchen to whip up quick breakfasts before heading to the parks—make all the difference. And the view of Cinderella Castle from our balcony? Pure magic.For larger families, the two-bedroom villas are a dream. They come with a king bed in the master, two queen beds in a second bedroom, and additional pull-out options in the common area. It’s like having your own little apartment at Disney, complete with all the perks of staying on property.

Making the Right Choice for Your Family

Deciding on the best resort for your family comes down to a few key factors: your budget, your kids’ ages, and how much space you truly need to feel comfortable. If you’re traveling with younger kids, a moderate resort might be all you need. If you’ve got teenagers who value their privacy (and spend forever in the bathroom), a family suite or DVC villa could be a lifesaver.

And if you’re looking to blend comfort with convenience, deluxe resorts offer that perfect balance of luxury and proximity to the parks.

A Final Tip for Stress-Free Planning

As someone who’s been in your shoes—juggling work, kids, and the endless to-do lists that come with planning a family vacation—I know how overwhelming this process can feel. That’s why I created a free guide to help you choose the best Disney resort for your family. This isn’t about what worked for me or someone in a mom’s group; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your family.

So take a deep breath, download the guide, and start dreaming about the magic waiting for you at Disney.

Planning a vacation as a family of five doesn’t have to feel like a logistical nightmare. With so many options available, there’s truly something for everyone—whether you’re looking for budget-friendly convenience, spacious suites, or a touch of luxury. And the best part? No matter which resort you choose, the magic of Disney will be there, waiting to create memories that last a lifetime.

Who is Christina?

Meet Christina Vieira, a Traveler, a Planner, and a Mom. She is also the owner of Showcase the World Travel, a modern travel agency that helps busy Moms take the vacation they deserve without adding “planning it all” to their to-do lists.  After all, Mom should get to enjoy their vacation too.

She specializes in Disney, the Caribbean, Europe, and has helped dozens of families have magical vacations that they will always remember. She loves traveling with her four-year-old