Walt Disney World Resort spans 40 square miles — about the same size as the city of Boston. Not only is it home to seven theme parks, 90 full-service restaurants and 2,000 animals, but it also offers 34 different hotels in which to stay.

Sure, there are several other hotels to select from in the Greater Orlando, Florida, area, but staying at Disney comes with privileges. You're promised Disney Magic at every turn, while also receiving extra hours in the theme parks, special transportation and FastPass+ bonuses.

But how do you choose when there are nearly three dozen great properties? We'll let the people decide...

Disney properties are divided into categories that illustrate different amenities and services that affect the price.

• Value: These are your most basic accommodations that can sleep between four and six guests. Recreation includes swimming pools and playgrounds, and dining options are food courts.
• Moderate: Your middle-ground properties with rooms that have similar features as the value properties but include an onsite restaurant.
• Deluxe: More restaurants will be available in a deluxe property that will offer character dining. Entertainment and recreation is also enhanced with bike and boat rentals and evening fun.
• Villas: All found on deluxe properties, villas provide up to three bedrooms and home-away-from-home accommodations with kitchens and multiple bathrooms.

We're not going to judge a property based on its price because some of the value properties can be quite lovely. This is Disney, after all!

Instead, we turned to TripAdvisor's hotel reviews. Because it's Disney, most of them are rave reviews and keep the hotel scores at four or higher, with the lowest being a three. We then ordered by hotel class and the number of reviews to create this list.

With all of this in mind, here are Disney World's 34 hotels, ranked from worst to first.

Location: Disney's Animal Kingdom

Category: Value

Hotel Class: 3 star

Rating: 4

The name of the game at this Value resort is competitive sports. Not only does it welcome school teams attending Orlando competitions, but it also promotes sports play across the property. This is one property crawling with kids, so if you're taking an adult-only getaway, this may be a bit loud for your tastes.

"The hotel was very clean and the staff was very friendly. The food is fast-food only, but there are many different options in the parks. A bus service runs every day to different parks. The hotel is a bit far out, but it's a great low-cost option." — @Ucc95

Location: Disney's Animal Kingdom

Category: Value

Hotel Class: 3 star

Rating: 4

Just like All-Star Sports is sports-themed, the All-Star Music property is all about the tunes. While the rooms look just like the sports property, when you arrive, you'll walk through a giant jukebox and past guitars aplenty. Of course, music is playing at every turn as well.

"This was our first time at Disney and I was a little apprehensive about this resort due to some of the reviews we had seen; all that worry went out of the window as soon as we arrived.

Brilliant cast members from the moment we walked into the moment we checked out. The rooms were dated (now being refurbished) but spotlessly clean. All the cast members that we came into contact with around the resort were fantastic. The food court was brilliant; we were just expecting burgers and hot dogs, but there was so much more.

The transportation system from the resort to the various parks was amazing; we didn't have to wait long for a bus at any time. The only time the wait times increased was at peak times, but even then, the longest we waited was 20 minutes." — @HappyPlace73

Location: Disney's Animal Kingdom

Category: Value

Hotel Class: 3 star

Rating: 4

The last of the All-Stars is, you guessed it, all about movies. But, of course, only Disney movies! Little kids who cannot get enough of their favorite characters will love this property with giant sculptures and settings from their favorite cartoon films. Inside, the rooms have received a much-need renovation for a crisp new look. (The other All-Stars will soon catch up.)

"Went there three times and would go again. It was perfect for a family or a young couple. The new rooms look good.

Food offer is great. The no-contact system with bracelets as keys is useful, especially the fact that you can order food on their app and have it delivered.

I believe it is better to stay on site and enjoy the bus offer. Everything was perfect as usual." — @ed3456

Location: Epcot

Category: Moderate

Hotel Class: 3 star

Rating: 4

A step up from the Value properties, the first Moderate property on the list is a perfect match for Pirates of the Caribbean. You'll even sleep in beds shaped like wooden ships if you select a pirate room! Even better: The hotel's exterior is designed to make you feel like you're walking through the winding alleyways of Spanish- and French-influenced islands.

"This resort is the best because it is close to Epcot, and has a Skyliner over to Epcot and Hollywood Studios in minutes. Buses all day and night, pool bar with steel drum music by the main pool along with a private pool in each section. A quiet resort with a lot of food selections." — @loucookies29

Location: Wide World of Sports

Category: Value

Hotel Class: 3 star

Rating: 4

Although it's a Value resort, the Pop Century breaks free of the All-Star themes, while remaining just as kitschy with a theme focused on the fads from the 1950s through the 1990s. 

Here, the decor is centered around all things popular during our youths, from Rubik's cubes to rollerblades to the crazy fashion and music.

"We were very pleased with our stay at Pop. We were given our room number via text before we arrived and were able to go straight to our room with our magic band. The room is on the smaller side, but we were mainly there to sleep.

One thing I loved is the number of outlets and device charging ports. We had our phones, iPad, neck fans and portable chargers. There was plenty of places to charge everything...

There are three pools, all very nice and have lifeguards. The food court is decent but nothing special. Food was good for the most part except for the pizza and breadsticks, they're pretty terrible. One of the biggest perks for Pop is the Skyliner. We loved being able to get to Epcot and Hollywood Studios this way." — smoss999

Location: Epcot

Category: Deluxe Villa

Hotel Class: 3 star

Rating: 4.5

You can certainly spot the difference between a Value and a Deluxe property. Inspired by European properties, this is one of the newest Disney properties that has yet to be fully discovered. You'll get more of the upscale amenities of the Deluxe properties with villas of up to three bedrooms able to accommodate large families.

"We did a quick one-night stay here recently, wanting to check out the newest [Disney Vacation Club or DVC] property. We could have stayed a lot longer! The property is gorgeous, staff very friendly and helpful.

The quick-service restaurant has a limited menu right now due to COVID, but the food we got was delicious. Pool was inviting with plenty of chairs (even distanced apart!). An easy walk to the Skyliner gets you going to Epcot or Studios. We will be back!" — @SueB209

Location: Wide World of Sports

Category: Value

Hotel Class: 3 star

Rating: 4.5

The newest of the Value properties allows guests to step into the minds of Disney animators. Choose to stay in rooms dedicated to "The Lion King," "Cars," "Finding Nemo" or "The Little Mermaid" — although they could set you spinning with all the colors you'll be immersed in.

"This hotel delivered on its claims as a Value Disney hotel, and we were pleasantly surprised. Rooms were clean and tidy, although I did not expect any less from Disney, and there were numerous fun details to spot in the room.

The food offerings in the pool bar and quick service restaurant were more than sufficient for what we needed. Overall, very pleased!" — @l.ee999888

Location: Magic Kingdom

Category: Moderate

Hotel Class: 3.5 star

Rating: 4.5

Because Disney is all about options, they even provide log cabins you can sleep in on the Fort Wilderness property. Surrounded by 750 acres of pine and cypress forest, you'll feel like you have arrived on the American frontier while you "rough it."

"We didn’t know what to expect having literally stayed at every [Walt Disney World or WDW] resort. We wanted something unique and different for a quick three-day staycation. Needless to say, we will be going back.

The cabin was great! Spacious and separated for two. In fact, our next visit will be five days. It was like staying in a small apartment. All the creature comforts ... So quiet and peaceful." — @Z1000VCscottd

Location: Magic Kingdom

Category: Campground

Hotel Class: 3.5 stars

Rating: 4.5

The same forest landscape welcomes anyone looking to bring their tents or RVs for the simple pleasures of sleeping under the stars (for far less money than the Disney brick and mortar spaces). Fully equipped, pet-friendly campsites are available for up to 10 people per site.

"Yes, it's expensive. But it's DISNEY! What else you expect? This is not your typical campground. It is an experience.

We went for a week and wish we had planned one day where we didn't have tickets to a park to just enjoy the campground. They have EVERYTHING, and I mean everything! Pools, horses, restaurants, bars ... everything. Right there." — @loriemoms

Location: Disney Springs

Category: Deluxe Villa

Hotel Class: 3.5 star

Rating: 4.5

You don't need to travel all the way to Key West to experience the southernmost tip of the U.S. Disney recreated Hemingway's favorite spot with pastel-colored buildings, palm trees and an island location near Disney World. The Deluxe Villas are more serene than the Value resorts and can accommodate up to 12.

"We are DVC members and stayed at Old Key West during a recent visit to WDW during the time of COVID-19 restrictions.

Overall, the resort was a nice place to stay and offered enough amenities to make their guests comfortable given all the restrictions in place. The studio suite is one of the larger studios of all the DVC resorts, and if you're staying close to the hospitality house, everything you'll need is within walking distance.

Old Key West is a large property, so if you're not staying near the hospitality house, then you may need to use the bus to get around the resort." — @GermanyTwinsFan

Location: Disney Springs

Category: Moderate

Hotel Class: 3.5 star

Rating: 4.5

Disney's magic also brings the French Quarter of New Orleans to its Port Orleans Resort. Cobblestone streets, wrought-iron balconies, gas lamps and, of course, jazz music round out the look while the restaurants serve up Cajun and Creole dishes.

"From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with a warm welcome and a smile.

Our room overlooked the beautiful river; the room was spacious and stylish. The hotel is relatively small and easy to get to the bus station and from there to all the parks easily and quickly. The bar in the hotel is lovely, and of course, the beignets are very tasty. There is a short and wonderful walking distance along the river towards the riverside hotel if you want to get to a souvenir shop with more options for shopping.

In conclusion, I really enjoyed — a wonderful hotel on a medium budget. Highly recommend!" — @meygal

Location: Disney's Animal Kingdom

Category: Moderate

Hotel Class: 3.5 stars

Rating: 4

Disney's attempt at creating a Cancun, Mexico-like property on its lakefront seems a bit lackluster compared to the creativity behind so many of its other properties. To be honest, it's a little ho-hum and middle of the road, which is why it's in the middle of this list.

"My family has stayed at a lot of Disney resorts, and this one was the best one yet.

Many great food choices at the food court and the pool. The pool was awesome, and my kids loved the slide. The rooms were renovated, clean and spacious. The beds were so comfortable! The transportation was very good! There were no long lines; it was very efficient. We'll definitely stay there again!" — @scott464

Location: Magic Kingdom

Category: Deluxe Villa

Hotel Class: 4 star

Rating: 4

It takes multiple flights and the loss of a day to get to stay in an over-the-water bungalow in the South Pacific, but Disney has made it easier to experience the glitz and glamor at its Polynesian resort. Adding the bungalows recently, the aging Polynesian resort has seen a rebirth since the arrival of these in-demand bungalows.

"Great place to stay. Excellent staff. Great food (especially the Tonga Toast at breakfast). Very convenient to transportation by monorail. Lake view is the best with direct sighting of the Magic Kingdom." — @417summersc

Location: Epcot

Category: Deluxe

Hotel Class: 4 star

Rating: 4

The twin properties of the Swan and Dolphin hotel were all the rage when they were built in the late '80s — and the coral and aqua Miami colors reflect its faux Renaissance stylings. Thank goodness the rooms have been renovated and have lost their "Golden Girls" decor.

"Tthe Walt Disney World Swan is fantastic! I hate writing great reviews about a place my husband and I love staying because we don’t want the resort to become so popular that everyone decides to stay there. But, oh well, this is our go-to Disney hotel!

You have all the convenience and dare I say experiences of an actual Disney-owned luxury resort, but it’s not nearly as crowded and not as expensive!" — @sommerraeky

Location: Epcot

Category: Deluxe

Hotel Class: 4 star

Rating: 4

The other half of the Swan has a such a similar look that those who visit often call the properties Swolphin. There isn't any difference between the properties, which is why they tied for the 20th spot on this list.

"Dolphin is a great home base, within walking distance of Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Boardwalk and Yacht Club resorts. The location simply cannot be beaten and makes for a great home base.

Swolphin cuts an imposing exterior figure, but personality within is lacking. Conventioners are omnipresent and take away from the Disney bubble." — @genevieve1976

Location: Magic Kingdom

Category: Deluxe

Hotel Class: 4

Rating: 4

Here's another one of the original properties. It's known as the property that the monorail passes through en route to the Magic Kingdom, and it was indeed contemporary when it first opened in the early 1970s. But, now, it's a throwback property that's popular for its walking-distance proximity to the Magic Kingdom. The rooms, however, have been renovated and are modern contemporary — sleek and elegant.

"My days of staying at the All-Stars were over about 25 years ago. After countless stays at [Port Orleans Resort - French Quarter], and one at the Poly, we decided to stay at the Contemporary. It is by far my favorite resort, although my husband preferred the Poly.

We stayed in the garden wing, and our room was big for our family of three. It overlooked the water, and every night the Electrical Water Pageant floated by our room, with its beautiful lights and music!" — @OPenelope

Location: Magic Kingdom

Category: Deluxe

Hotel Class: 4 star

Rating: 4

One of the first Disney World properties, this property will have you feel as if you have arrived in the South Pacific. From its tiki bars, Polynesian cuisine and hula dancers under its thatched-roof interior, this is an iconic WDW resort, albeit it a bit dated since it's been standing since 1971 (unless, of course, you opt to stay in the previously mentioned villas and bungalows).

"The Polynesian is a wonderful hotel, its location is convenient (with the monorail), its restaurants are some of the best, its theme is one of the most fun. It checks all the boxes that my family is looking for on a vacation." — @ChristopherJAustin

Location: Disney Springs

Category: Moderate

Hotel Class: 4 star

Rating: 4

The sister property of the French Quarter, Riverside continues the Louisiana theme but at a slower pace. This Bayou- and Plantation-inspired resort lies along the Sassagoula River and features backwood cottages one would find in the rural areas of the state. You can walk along the river to get to the more energetic French Quarter for the best of both worlds.

"One of my favorite Disney resorts in the mid-range. The staff was superb. We stayed in a Tiana suite. The grounds are lovely, and the zero-entry pool was amazing!

Fiber-optic fireworks on the headboards and genie lamp shaped faucets. The attention to detail was great. Would definitely stay again." — @kaydayFL

Location: Magic Kingdom

Category: Deluxe Villa

Hotel Class: 4 star

Rating: 4.5

While Fort Wilderness provides a rustic retreat in the woods, Copper Creek offers a glamping approach to a woodland retreat. These cabins and villas are Disney's high-end accommodations with wraparound porches, full kitchens and lake views.

"I quite love everything about Wilderness Lodge, and Copper Creek Villas are located right off the lobby and feel like all the glamor of Wilderness Lodge, with all the comfort of DVC.

The dining options are wonderful, characters have been known to just appear in the lobby, and the location is truly a slice of heaven in what can feel like the chaotic world of Disney World." — @no_ruckgrets

Location: Disney's Animal Kingdom

Category: Deluxe Villa

Hotel Class: 4 star

Rating: 4.5

When Disney's Animal Kingdom brought the African safari to Orlando, it also created beautiful villas for guests to stay in the lap of luxury with views of the more than 2,000 wild animals grazing in four savannas beside the property.

"This was our first trip to Disney with our 4-year-old. So many hotels to choose from, but I was intrigued by this place simply because it would have African animals outside our room.

Although Disney is chaotic at the best of times, we loved coming back to our room at the end of a busy day." — @thomasmN2050WW

Location: Magic Kingdom

Category: Deluxe Villa

Hotel Class: 4 star

Rating: 4.5

Another elegant, yet rustic retreat can be found in the villas of Disney's Wilderness Lodge. The Pacific-Northwest styling and decor can be found near the Copper Creek Villas and Cabins, sharing the same trails and outdoor amenities.

"Boulder Ridge is a brilliant rendition and representation of National Park lodges and natural scenic areas in the western United States. As a local Pacific Northwesterner, my family felt right at home!

Take a walk around the resort to see if you can spy the geyser, buffalo topiary and mining themed swimming pools ... Boats can be taken from the resort to the Magic Kingdom!" — @hshumway

Location: Epcot

Category: Deluxe Villa

Hotel Class: 4 star 

Rating: 4.5

What's a trip to Florida without a day at the beach? But this beach is actually modeled after traditional New England beaches and resorts found on Nantucket and the shores of Maine. The villas of this property can accommodate up to eight in the studio-size to two-bedroom villas with full kitchens.

"My stay at the Disney Beach Club Villas Resort was a dream come true for me and my cousin while I was on vacation. I took a vacation to Walt Disney World to celebrate my high school graduation, and it was great to be down at one of the happiest places on Earth.

So glad I went, and I’m so happy I stayed at this hotel. I even loved the smell of the hotel lobby, and the staff seemed very friendly. I even enjoyed swimming in the pool. I totally recommend this place to anyone who wants to vacay down at Disney World." — @streetspitzley66

Location: Epcot

Category: Deluxe Villa

Hotel Class: 4 star 

Rating: 4.5

Heading farther down the Eastern Seaboard, Disney takes us to the popular boardwalks of Coney Island, the New Jersey Shore and the southern beaches of Maryland and Virginia at its BoardWalk Inn. Guests can stroll about the boardwalk along Crescent Lake.

"This was our first time staying at the BoardWalk Villas. I have always wanted to stay here because, while I live in Virginia, I am a Jersey girl at heart. The BoardWalk gave me all the reminders of the Jersey shore." — @crazydisneygirl3

Location: Disney's Animal Kingdom

Category: Deluxe Villa

Hotel Class: 4 star

Rating: 4.5

The sister to Jambo House also provides a chance to view a giraffe strolling by your hotel balcony. Yet there is something about Kidani that makes it shine just a bit brighter. You'll really feel like you've escaped to Africa.

"Disney Kidani succeeds at all levels, even during this pandemic. The staff keeps things safe and friendly. The facility is perfect. Pools with shade, the constant entertainment of animals and great food at Sanaa." — @WeLove2Fly

Location: Magic Kingdom

Category: Deluxe Villa

Hotel Class: 4 star

Rating: 4.5

The newest addition to the Contemporary Resort is its lakeside towers that are within walking distance to the Magic Kingdom. Arranged condo-style with kitchens or kitchenettes and living space to spread out, it's easy to see why these are more popular than the parent property. And you won't be able to beat the firework views!

"We had a two-bedroom villa full theme park view! From our balcony, we could hear the Christmas Party music, and the fireworks show was AWESOME!

Especially the fact that we watched the fireworks in our PJs, and once the show was over, we went to bed ... no long walk back. The room has TONS of space!" — @439ChrisM

Location: Epcot

Category: Deluxe

Hotel Class: 4 star

Rating: 4.5

Whether you stay in the villas or at the inn, you'll get the same Victorian charm. But, let's be real, it's the inn that's the true star. Ragtime music plays as you stroll through the gardens and enjoy the carnival-style pool with a Coney Island Cyclone water slide. Plus, you can walk to both Epcot and Hollywood Studios from here.

"Overall, I would highly recommend this resort if you are looking for something relaxing and very unique. Our kids asked us on day two if we could make this our hotel the next time we go back. We definitely will." — @Bridget E

Location: Epcot

Category: Deluxe

Hotel Class: 4 star

Rating: 4.5

The waterfront themes continue at the tony Yacht Club, also touting a New England vibe complete with lighthouses and sailboats to make you feel as if you docked in Newport, Rhode Island, or made your way to Martha's Vineyard with understated elegance. The property is within walking distance to Epcot as well.

"Yacht Club's location is fabulous — with a short and beautiful walk to both Epcot and Hollywood Studios. What a treat to stroll back to the Yacht Club after a fantastic day of Epcot's Food & Wine Festival to a hearty 'Welcome Home!' from the friendly and attentive staff!

A big plus of this resort is its smaller size, providing a more intimate and personal experience. There are ALWAYS plenty of team members in the lobby area to greet and assist guests, and the rooms are very spacious, comfortable and well-maintained. Great service from a professional team!" — @K1510VRdonnab

Location: Epcot

Category: Deluxe

Hotel Class: 4 star

Rating: 4.5

The Beach Club property is a favorite among guests, perhaps for its idyllic setting near Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios (by boat). Nestled along Crescent Lake, it offers boat rentals to get guests away from crowds as they set sail in Disney's Stormalong Bay. This is the sister property of the Yacht Club Resort.

"We have stayed at several WDW resorts, but Beach Club was fantastic. We were upgraded to the club level, and they go far and beyond to make you happy.

The cast members that are always putting food and drinks out are pleasant and accommodating. We were a five-minute walk from Epcot and the Skyliner. We were a 1.2ish-mile walk from Hollywood Studios.

The best part is we could just walk downstairs to Cape May. This is one of our favorite restaurants in Disney. We can’t wait to go back." — @Tvl4fun12

Location: Magic Kingdom

Category: Deluxe

Hotel Class: 4 star

Rating: 4.5

When it comes to rustic stays, the Wilderness Lodge is the winner. The stone hearth and the fire in the lobby welcome you to a space where rocking chairs overlook creeks and trees. You don't have to pitch a tent or hook up an RV like Fort Wilderness. And Copper and Boulder are lovely additions. But it is the original Wilderness property that has our hearts.

"The wilderness lodge has always been one of my favorite places to visit at Disney World, as it's beautifully maintained and is reminiscent of the lodges you might find out West." — @jrobba

Location: Disney Springs

Category: Deluxe Villa

Hotel Class: 4 star

Rating: 4.5 

The New York horse-racing destination became a Victorian resort town, and Disney brings its turn-of-the-century look to Lake Buena Vista. You will feel like you've stepped back in time when you enter the lobby and rooms.

"My family and I have been going to Disney for many years, and it is our first time staying at Saratoga Springs. We were upgraded from a studio to a one-bedroom, and it was renovated and beautiful!

The walk to Disney Springs is fantastic, and the grounds and pools of the resort are awesome! We can’t wait to book our next trip back!" — @caseyp601

Location: Magic Kingdom

Category: Deluxe

Hotel Class: 4 star

Rating: 4.5

Modeled after the Hotel Del Coronado in Southern California, the Grand Floridian certainly has become a grande dame of Disney properties. Overlooking the Magic Kingdom, boats take guests between the hotel and park, and fireworks are on display from its lakefront shores. The property doesn't come cheap, but it doesn't spare any expense in making you feel like you got your money's worth.

"The Grand Floridian is one of those luxurious and charming hotels that immediately puts you into this uplifting frame of mind every time you see it or walk into the lobby.

To me, at this place, you can feel or sense the magic of Disney. Our family has been staying there or in the villas next door off and on over the past 24 years." — @Robert Dapr1950

Location: Disney's Animal Kingdom

Category: Deluxe

Hotel Class: 4 star

Rating: 4.5

No matter how luxurious the Jambo and Kidani Villas may be, nothing beats the original Animal Kingdom Lodge. You don't have to spend more to experience Africa. You'll walk into a resort filled with African art — one of the largest collections outside Africa — and see the animals that live just outside the windows in Disney's savannas.

"The resort was beautiful ... Lots of activities going on and so many things to see and do. We had a standard view room but saw lots of animals day and night at their feeding plots. My kids loved it, and so did we.

The room was gorgeous and remodeled. We would love to stay here again." — @jsappington

Location: Magic Kingdom

Category: Deluxe Villa

Hotel Class: 5 star

Rating: 4.5

The Grand Floridian already appeared in the Top Five, but take the luxury found at this gorgeous hotel and now add in villas with up to three bedrooms fully equipped with kitchens and room for 12. Perfection!

"Two large bathrooms with TVs inside the mirrors (insane)! We were on the ground level adjacent to the pool so were very pleased that my kids could go right outside all the while I kept an eye on them. Main lobby with band and music playing is so relaxing. We did the tea party for my daughter two times here, and it was just magical.

In terms of restaurants, you can’t go wrong. We are big foodies and love the restaurants at this resort. Spa is great.

Transportation by boat to the park is amazing. We have stayed at many Disney resorts, and this one is to die for and a must for any Disney fan!" — @Tiffanytravelholic

Location: Walt Disney World

Category: Uncategorized

Hotel Class: 5 star

Rating: 5

Part of the Disney family with a location within the Walt Disney Resort, the Four Seasons Resort gets the official No. 1 for Disney stays. Of course, it comes with all the bells and whistles one expects from a Four Seasons luxury resort within its 5 acres — spa, five-star restaurants, complimentary kids' programming — but with Disney's backing for all the extra perks of staying at Disney, such as Magic Hours, FastPass and Vacation Club options.

"We loved our trip to the Four Seasons. Gorgeous hotel, kids club is fabulous and the staff is good. The facilities are all great, the pool is gorgeous, and we love the rapids. The rooms are gorgeous, and food was good.

Nothing we could complain over. One of our favorite trips ever!" @lwatt2418