The Best Disney World Resorts for Families with Young Kids

October 13, 2026 · 7 min read

With little kids, the right resort can make or break a Disney World trip. Short trips back for naps, space for everyone to sleep, and a pool kids love matter more than almost anything else. Here are the resorts that do those things best, at every budget.

What matters most with young kids

• Getting back for a nap: being close to Magic Kingdom — or on the monorail, a boat, or the Skyliner — makes a midday break realistic.
• Room to sleep: families of five or more need a room that actually fits, without paying for two.
• A great pool: zero-entry areas, splash zones, and slides make resort downtime a highlight.
• A kitchen or fridge: easy breakfasts and snacks save time and money.

Best on a budget: Art of Animation

Art of Animation’s Family Suites sleep up to six, with two bathrooms, a kitchenette, and a separate bedroom — so parents aren’t stuck in the dark at 7:30 p.m. Kids love the Finding Nemo, Cars, and Lion King theming, the Big Blue Pool is one of the biggest on property, and the Skyliner makes EPCOT and Hollywood Studios easy.

Also great on a budget: All-Star Music

All-Star Music also has Family Suites that sleep six, usually at a lower price than Art of Animation. You’ll rely on buses, but for a park-focused trip with a big family it’s hard to beat on value.

Best Moderate: Port Orleans – Riverside

Alligator Bayou rooms sleep up to five, and the Royal Guest Rooms are a hit with princess fans. Ol’ Man Island has a pool with a slide and a playground, and the boat to Disney Springs is an easy evening outing.

Best for naps: the monorail resorts

If Magic Kingdom is your focus, the Contemporary (walkable to the park), the Polynesian, and the Grand Floridian make midday breaks simple. The Polynesian’s volcano pool and beach are a favorite with kids, and all three have character dining on site.

Best “wow” factor: Animal Kingdom Lodge

Waking up to giraffes and zebras outside your balcony is unforgettable for little kids. The savannas, cultural activities, and Uzima Springs pool make it feel like a destination of its own — just plan on buses to the parks.

Best for big families: villas and cabins

Disney Vacation Club villas and cabins — like the Cabins at Fort Wilderness, which sleep six with a full kitchen — give you separate sleeping spaces and room to spread out. You can book them for cash, no membership required.

Family-friendly rooms like suites and cabins have limited inventory and can sell out early. Compare resorts for your dates, and set an alert if the one you want is full.