Spectacular Stays: Disney Resorts for Toddlers
It’s been a whimsical day at the happiest place on Earth. From racing down Main Street to meet every princess, savoring that Dole Whip, and braving the rollercoasters. With sore feet yet a big smile, you might dream of sinking into your hotel bed to recharge for the next day. But what if your hotel was more than just a place to rest? Disney Resorts go beyond being just a room—they’re a whole other world of magic, perfect for moms seeking a pocket of peace and a dash of discovery for their kids. Little ones will find magic everywhere, and what better to feed that curiosity than to explore enchanting details from the moment you check in? That’s why we put together a list of the best Disney Resorts for toddlers. The magic is so great, that even you and your older kids will be utterly enchanted.
Remember that you’re on vacation too! No need to stress over bookings, room plans, and meals. Choose your favorite property and we can handle the rest.
Animal Kingdom Lodge
Imagine a resort that doesn’t just take you on vacation but transports you to another world entirely. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is a true wildlife wonder, bringing the spirit of Africa to life right in the heart of Disney. From the moment you step into the lobby, your family is met with vibrant chandeliers, bridges, and one the largest collections of African art in the country, from the moment you check into the lobby.
But the real magic? Animal Kingdom Lodge is home to over 30 species of animals, many of which you can watch right from your balcony in select rooms. Picture your little ones’ eyes lighting up as they catch sight of giraffes strolling —it’s a view that goes far beyond childhood wonder. Even teens and adults can’t help but be in utter awe.
This resort is more than a place to stay; it’s a spark for curiosity and learning. With every glimpse of the animals, taste of African-inspired cuisine, and story shared by the knowledgeable cast members, your children will find a love for zoology, geography, and the diverse cultures of the African continent. The property also offers a wide range of savannah-themed amenities for play such as campfires, splash zones with animal observation zones, a playground, transportation to each Disney park, and Indian and African cuisine.
Port New Orleans French Quarter + Riverside
Port Orleans Resort warmly invites you and your little ones to immerse yourselves in the lively world filled with the vibrant spirit of New Orleans, featuring two charming sister hotels: French Quarter and Riverside. With easy access between the two resorts, you can explore the treasures of each.
Port New Orleans: French Quarter
The French Quarter invites you and your little ones to the lively world with the spirit of New Orleans. As soon as you enter, you are greeted by an elegant lobby with high ceilings, iron pillars, brick walls, and a dazzling fountain at the center. This marvel is not only one of the best Disney resorts for toddlers, but everyone in the family. Teenagers will especially appreciate the attention to detail and aesthetics These sites offer endless photo-ops for social media or creating memories. But this is only a preview of this getaway.
Port New Orleans: Riverside
At Port New Orleans Riverside, you can stay in a Royal Guest Room where your family will feel like royalty – that’s what a vacation should be about. These spacious rooms are beautifully decorated, making you feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale. Kids will be wide-eyed with joy as they discover walls adorned with their favorite Disney princesses and headboards that light up with fireworks. It’s a magical touch that transforms bedtime into an adventure. This isn’t just a room; it’s an enchanting experience designed to make family memories that last a lifetime. After all, every family deserves a little magic, especially on vacation!
An Unforgettable Ferry Ride
Choosing between these two marvelous resorts can feel like an impossible task. But fear not, Disney has a solution that makes your vacation even more magical: the Sassagoula River Cruise. This charming boat ride whisks travelers through the serene beauty of the riverside while connecting both Port New Orleans resorts. Imagine the thrill on your little ones’ faces as they embark on this adventure. The scenic journey showcases the lush surroundings while also enchanting your stay. You can enjoy all the treasures each resort offers while soaking up the fresh air and view. Plus, Disney Springs waits for you at the end of the route, so even more fun awaits! It’s a double win for the whole family.
Art of Animation
Disney World’s iconic value resort, Art of Animation, is ideal for those looking for a slice of nostalgia and the children currently living in that playful era. Visual tributes to famous storyboard artists deck out the lobby, immersing travelers into the creative process. Kids and adults alike will learn and appreciate the magic that transforms imagination into animation.
The Art of Animation resort allows you to explore four captivating sections, each themed after a beloved Disney film. Large statues of animated characters and environments enhance the resort which are perfect for open play. Race through the desert with Lightning Mcqueen, explore the ocean blue with Nemo, sing your heart out with Ariel, and roar proudly with Simba. Imagine your child, who has watched Cars every day since Summer, zipping through a full-scale replica of Radiator Springs! Even your room can be fully decked out with Disney theming – so we can book an underwater delight that will make your child feel like Princess Ariel.
Amenities
Beyond the playful themes of the Art of Animation, the resort also provides family-friendly conveniences that make every day a breeze. Each section features a film-themed pool, play areas, and even an outdoor movie viewing. For those magical mornings when little ones are bursting with excitement, you can simply hop on a bus to any Disney World park, keeping everyone’s energy high and stress low. If you’re looking for a new way to travel to Epcot or Hollywood Studios – float above Disney World on a gondola with Disney’s Skyliner that picks you up straight from your resort. Everyone can cuddle together to share the view – a perfect preshow for your upcoming adventure. This stay is not only one of the best Disney resorts for toddlers but anyone who holds a love for Disney animation.
Polynesian Village Resort
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort—a tropical escape where your family will feel like you’ve stepped right into the heart of the South Pacific. You’ll be greeted by greenery, tiki torches, and the warm glow of island-inspired decor. This resort is ideal for families with toddlers, offering a magical environment that brings island dreams to life. Your kids can explore sandy shores, splash in kid-friendly pools, or marvel at the torch-lighting ceremony as the sun sets over the lagoon. Every inch of this resort is designed to transport you to a world of relaxation, wonder, and play – making this one of the best Disney resorts for toddlers.
If you want to boost the immersion, we can help you book a bungalow suite. These exclusive suites float over the water, giving families peaceful privacy and maximum comfort. Each room is thoughtfully designed to immerse you in the spirit of the islands, creating a cozy, enchanting space that your whole family will adore. Cuddle with your kids on a private porch with a spectacular view of the resort shoreline and sunset. This warm environment is ideal for storytime, memory-making, relaxation, and a clear view of Magic Kingdom’s nightly fireworks show.
Unique Transportation
As if it couldn’t get any better, Disney’s Polynesian Village resort offers direct transportation to all Disney Parks, with a unique way to reach both Magic Kingdom and Epcot. The resort is just a short walk to the Ticket and Transportation Center, giving you easy access to the ferry or the monorail. Toddlers can ride the thrilling monorail to either the Magic Kingdom or Epcot, taking in exciting sights before their adventure. Or if your family wants to take it easy, you can enjoy a relaxing ferry ride to Magic Kingdom across the Seven Seas lagoon.
For more tips on a Disney vacation with toddlers, check out our advice on Disney World with preschoolers. Take a break from the busy and schedule a call with us today!
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 daughter, Annabelle. Her favorite destinations include Walt Disney World, Wyoming, and Prague.
