While Disney World is traditionally thought to be a great place to take the kids, it can also be a very memorable vacation for adults. After all, as Walt Disney himself said, “Adults are only kids grown up, anyway.”
So, what are the best Disney resorts for adults? To narrow down the choice to one Disney World resort best for adults is impossible. There are many things to consider – your budget, your preferences, location, transportation, which Disney parks you plan to visit, and how often. But one thing is for sure, the Walt Disney Company has some great options for adults.
Keep reading to find out more about some of the value, moderate, and deluxe resorts in Disney World that appeal to adults. Hopefully, it will help you identify a Disney World Resort that will be perfect for you.
Best Disney Resort for Adults: Deluxe Category
Disney’s Riviera Resort
This is the newest among all the Disney hotels, having opened in late 2019. It is themed as an elegant Mediterranean style resort with some great fine dining options.
The stunning art pieces in the main lobby areas and the beautiful suites all give the Riviera Resort a decidedly adult feel.
The Upside: Topolino’s Terrace, a table service restaurant and romantic rooftop dining experience, is perfect for date night with unparalleled views of the fireworks at the theme parks. The Italian and French-inspired menu and wine pairings make for a perfect, relaxed meal.
There are also stylish pools and amazing landscaping. The resort has its own Skyliner Station so you have easy access to Epcot and Hollywood Studios.
The Downside: Early reviews suggest that the Tower Studios at Disney’s Riviera Resort are not great value for money. Some guests have even reported the guest rooms are small enough to start feeling claustrophobic on a week-long trip!
Disney’s Beach Club Resort
If you want to eat and drink your way to vacation bliss, then Disney’s Beach Club Resort is one of the best Disney World hotels for adults.
Located a stone’s throw away from all the great dining choices at Epcot’s World Showcase, this deluxe resort is one of the best Disney World resorts for adults. The 3-acre Stormalong Bay, the highlight of this beach-themed resort, features a sand-bottom pool, water slide, and lazy river.
Want some privacy? Splash out for a private cabana with its own mini-fridge, safe, ceiling fan, and complimentary soft drinks. Or head over to boat rentals and sail around Crescent Lake in a mini-powerboat.
The Upside: Like all Disney deluxe resorts, Beach Club has the best free transportation options. Epcot is within walking distance. Disney’s Hollywood Studios is accessible by boat transportation. Fantasia Gardens Mini Golf is a short stroll away.
There’s also a Skyliner Station. So, getting around is super easy. Plus, I love to spend the evenings at the Martha’s Vineyard Lounge.
The Downside: Basically, besides the Beaches and Cream Soda Shop, there aren’t too many quick service dining options or fun bars at this Disney World hotel. But of course, Epcot is right around the corner and you can always take an Uber to Disney Springs for a myriad of dining options.
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
A relaxing Pacific islands theme, exciting dining options, and a private marina on the Seven Seas Lagoon all make the Polynesian Resort one of the best Disney hotels for adults.
One of the original and legendary Disney World Resorts, it beats the other monorail resorts if you’re looking for a relaxing oasis and island paradise to escape to. Splurge on an overwater bungalow with the best amenities and perks and make it a vacation to remember.
The Upside: The transportation options are fantastic – take a boat, ride the monorail, or change to the Disney Skyliner at Epcot.
But that’s if you can tear yourself away from all the wonderful food offerings and recreation at the resort itself!
Consider Ohana, consistently voted as one of the best dining experiences in Disney World. Other options include Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto (tiki bar), Kona Cafe, and the Tambu Lounge, all great restaurants. Captain Cook’s serves hot breakfast and grill items, pizzas, sandwiches, stir-fries, and more.
With all these other restaurants, you have a great choice when it comes to dining. And there’s the unique electrical water pageant to look forward to as well.
The Downside: You might want to be sitting down when you check the rates at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. The extra amenities and all the bells and whistles of a deluxe resort don’t come cheap.
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa
Elegant Victorian buildings, live orchestra music, classy dining options, luxurious massages, and the chance to watch Magic Kingdom fireworks light up the night sky over the Cinderella Castle make this one of my favorite hotels in Disney World.
All these and more make Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, themed in the golden era of Palm Beach, one of the best choices for adults-only trips to Walt Disney World.
The Upside: I love the seasonal decorations at this deluxe resort that really put you in the spirit of the holidays.
Also, not to be missed is the classiest dining spot in Walt Disney World, Victoria & Albert’s, an upscale, fine dining restaurant. Or you can head over to Narcoosee’s for some amazing New England-style lobsters and steaks with stunning views of the lagoon and nighttime fireworks.
Yet another option is the Enchanted Rose Lounge. I love Citricos, located in the main building and serving a Mediterranean-inspired menu with a great wine list.
Looking to relax, but with table service options? 1900 Park Fare is ideal and has some Disney magic with character dining. Plus, as the name suggests, there’s a full-service spa onsite for some much needed relaxation.
The Downside: The gorgeous theming of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa can feel over-fancy to some people.
Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
Designed as a waterfront hotel in Atlantic City, Disney’s BoardWalk Inn has a cool ambiance, which makes it unique among all the Disney deluxe resorts. And with a great location on the Disney BoardWalk, dining options, shopping, and the entertainment district are at your doorstep, so that’s convenient for adults.
Add to this, Jellyrolls Piano Bar, Trattoria Al Forno, mini golf, movies under the stars, fishing, tennis courts, carnival games, and campfire activities, and you’ve got yourself a vacation to remember.
The Upside: The fun, inviting, and relaxed atmosphere at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn appeals to most people. Also, the dining and recreational options cater more to adults than young children.
Plus, you can catch the Epcot fireworks or take the Skyliner to Hollywood Studios.
Most guest rooms have spectacular views of Crescent Lake or the BoardWalk. If you are seeking magic outside the Disney theme parks, then this is easily one of the best Disney World Resorts.
The Downside: The last time I stayed here, the rooms were starting to look a little dated (they haven’t been refurbished in over 5 years), so that’s one downside. Plus the pool, whilst a quieter pool, is not one of the best pools at Disney World.
It cannot compete with Stormalong Bay at Disney’s Beach Club Resort. Nor does it have the relaxing island vibes and palm trees of the Caribbean Beach Resort.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
I know I said I wouldn’t choose a favorite among the top picks, but I am leaning towards Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge as the best Disney hotel for adults on a getaway.
My favorite Disney resort has detailed theming that transports you thousands of miles away to the savannas of Africa.
Here, you get to indulge all your senses with art, music, food, and of course, the animals on the lodge’s grounds. How can you beat giraffes walking up to your own balcony?
The Upside: The gorgeous views, the animals, the magical Africa themes. Plus dining at Jiko – The Cooking Place and Boma – Flavors of Africa gives you the opportunity to sample some exotic flavors without leaving the country.
Plus there is what you expect at all deluxe Disney properties – a great gym, fitness center, spa, and even in-room massages.
The Downside: The location. While it is one of the best hotels for adults, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is really far from all the action in Disney World. The Disney bus system connects the lodge, but it can take a long time to travel anywhere.
I highly recommend having your own car if you stay here.
Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
This nautical-themed, upscale, New England-style resort is located in the Epcot Resort Area. The beautiful architecture and tasteful decor appeal to adults more than children or families.
The Upside: The resort’s own Crew’s Cup Lounge and Yachtsman Steakhouse are excellent. Plus Epcot and its international food options are a short walk or boat ride away.
This resort and the Beach Club share many amenities, so it adds to your dining and recreation options. Also within easy access from the Yacht Club are the Swan and Dolphin hotels.
The Downside: This hotel often hosts conventions so it can feel a little business-like, but if you are working on vacation, there is a business center onsite.
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
For outdoorsy nature lovers, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is easily the best Disney resort for adults. The rustic but refined theme at this deluxe Disney resort is reminiscent of the Pacific Northwest, with views of Bay Lake and beautiful landscaping.
The Territory Lounge has a full bar with a selection of northwestern beers and wines plus appetizers.
The Upside: The prices at the Wilderness Lodge are some of the lowest among the best deluxe resorts for adults at Disney World, so it’s good value for money. This is my pick if you want luxury but also want to save money.
It is located near the Magic Kingdom park if you are planning to go.
The Downside: The bus transportation to other Disney parks besides MK can be a bit long.
Best Disney Resort for Adults: Moderate Category
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
This is one of the moderate resorts at Disney World that is ideal for adults. With a choice between the stately mansion-like Magnolia Bend section and the quaint, natural setting of the Alligator Bayou section, there is something for everyone.
And with the Port Orleans French Quarter just a short walk away, southern specialties like jambalaya, gumbo, and Mickey beignets are there for the taking.
The Upside: The 3+-acre old-style swimming hole complete with sawmill waterslide is full of character. The area is designed to cater to grown-ups with the Muddy Rivers pool bar and hot tub.
The Downside: The bus system at this resort can be frustrating with 4 different bus stops.
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
Sister resort to the Port Orleans Riverside Resort, Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter is an amazing option for adults who want to stay at an intimate resort.
With oodles of southern charm reminiscent of New Orleans, this is a great pick for grown ups who visit Disney World. The Port Orleans French Quarter tends to be less crowded and you will surely see fewer children here than other resorts.
The Upside: The quiet and charming resort is very walkable and shares most amenities with the Port Orleans Riverside Resort, which gives you additional dining and recreation options, including strolls along the marina, biking, fishing, romantic horse-drawn carriage rides, and more.
Plus, being a moderate resort it offers a good mix of luxury and value with many similar amenities as the deluxe categories.
The Downside: There is no table service restaurant at the two hotels that constitute the Port Orleans resorts.
Neither Port Orleans Riverside, nor French Quarter has a sit-down restaurant, but you can easily walk to the Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory (food court) for quick service meals.
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
This recently renovated moderate resort is simply gorgeous. I particularly love the rooms in the Gran Destino Tower that feature new styling. The amazing dining options (Maya Grill) and full-service spa put Coronado Springs firmly on my list of best Disney World resorts for adults.
The Upside: Two pool bars, three lounges, and three table service restaurants plus a counter service restaurant make Coronado Springs one of the best moderate resorts for adults at Disney World.
I recommend at least one evening at The Dahlia Lounge, a rooftop location in the Gran Destino Tower, where they serve tapas and cocktails.
The Downside: Again, like some other moderate resorts, this is a convention hotel and there can be large groups in the common areas, taking away from the vacation vibe.
Best Disney Resort for Adults: Value Category
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
If you’re looking for a fun adult-only vacation, a value resort is a great option. It’s less stuffy than some of the other resorts that are deluxe properties.
My pick is Disney’s Art of Animation Resort for the best Disney resort for adults, although Disney’s Pop Century and All Star Resorts are close seconds.
The Upside: Super cute theming, the best pool in all the value resorts, and Disney Skyliner access.
The Downside: The theme, while more adult than many Disney resorts, can still feel kiddish to many adults.
Disney’s Pop Century Resort
This value resort is a great choice for adults who struggle to keep their inner child contained.
The decor and theme features toys, fashions, and catchphrases that have captured the public’s imagination over the decades. Think Rubik’s Cube, rollerblades, Play-Doh, and yo-yos.
The Upside: The flower shaped water jets at the Hippy Dippy Pool can keep you entertained for hours. With its own Skyliner Station, the Pop Century Resort provides easy access to Epcot and Hollywood Studios.
The Downside: The rooms near the pools can get pretty noisy.
Disney’s All Star Resorts
The unique Disney’s All Stars Sports Resort pays homage to competitive sports like basketball, baseball, surfing, tennis, and more. Sports fans love the giant surfboards located poolside and the general sports theming of the hotel.
Disney’s All Stars Movies Resort salutes legendary Disney films. A great option for adults looking for a nostalgic trip down memory lane with whimsical decor.
The Upside: The multiple pools mean there is always a spot to go dipping near your room. There are also movies under the stars and themed food courts to grab a quick bite.
The Downside: The larger-than-life icons attract lots of families with kids. Not ideal if you’re looking for a quiet resort.
Best Disney Springs Resort for Adults
While the resorts in the Disney Springs area are operated by other hotel groups, they are Good Neighbor hotels and offer many of the same benefits as a Disney property, such as Extra Magic Hours.
The big advantage is being walking distance to all the dining and entertainment in Disney Springs. Also, these resorts are often more competitively priced than the typical Disney hotel rates. You can sometimes get more amenities than Disney value resorts for a better price.
And my pick for the best non-Disney hotel for adults?
It’s the Hilton Buena Vista Palace.
I recommend getting a pool view room because the pool area, complete with lazy river, hot tubs, and heated pool, is absolutely stunning. And if you want to add some Disney magic to your vacation, there’s even a character breakfast on offer.
Also, if you are in Disney World for a special event, they offer in-room celebrations.
Choosing the Best Resort for Adults at Walt Disney World
Chances are that since you’re looking up the best Disney resorts for adults, you’re planning a romantic or adults-only trip to Walt Disney World soon.
But not all Disney World resorts are made equal. Some are decidedly more adult in terms of atmosphere, theme, or dining options.
All the hotels I’m discussing today (except one) are Disney World properties. The one thing you have to appreciate is just how big Walt Disney World is – 25,000 acres or 43 square miles. That’s nearly the size of San Francisco.
Here are some considerations on how to choose the best resort for adults:
1. Location
Locations matter greatly when you are choosing a Disney hotel.
For instance, if you are hardcore Star War fans, you will want to visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Or if you love taking food tours, you might visit Disney World during the International Food and Wine Festival at Epcot.
In both cases, it would make sense to stay at Disney hotels near Epcot and Hollywood Studios.
2. Budget
The other big thing to consider is budget. The rates for Disney World resorts vary by season and availability, but deluxe resorts can cost up to three times as much as value resorts. So, that is definitely something to keep in mind.
3. Transportation
Consider transportation when booking your hotel.
Some Disney World hotels are monorail resorts, meaning they offer fast access to Magic Kingdom and Epcot.
Other Disney Resorts have a Disney Skyliner Station from where you can be whisked away by gondola to Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Epcot. Yet others are near the Animal Kingdom theme park, and staying here makes sense if you want an African-themed adults-only vacation at Walt Disney World.
If you’re not planning on visiting these parks, it doesn’t make sense to pay a premium for these Walt Disney World hotels. However, you may need to switch buses at the transportation center, so factor that in when choosing a Disney resort.
And The Best Disney Resort For Adults Is…
I’d go with Riviera — but there’s definitely a ton of other awesome options depending on your budget and preferences.
All the Disney resorts on this list are what most adults find appealing. Hopefully, I’ve helped you zero in on the best Disney World resort for your adults-only trip.