For most of my life I never stayed at a Disney resort. We lived close enough to Disney World that most trips included heading home that night or staying off property and leaving the next morning. Although that is still something we commonly do, I must say that I enjoy staying at a Disney resort so much more than anything else.
One of the biggest reasons that we never stayed on property was because of the price. It is true, the Disney hotels cost more and are not as nice as the off property options in the same budget point. But, when you stay at a Disney hotel, there are extra perks that you will not get anywhere else. Free transportation to parks, extra park hours exclusive to Disney resort guests, free delivery of in-park purchases to your room, and free evening entertainment.
These resorts are my favorites at Disney World depending on preferences and price point.
Port Orleans Riverside
Good for families, couples, and vacations on a budget.
We have recently stayed and the Port Orleans Riverside and I loved it. This hotel is huge and has about fifty different areas and pools. The central pool area is on its own activity island while the hotel "pods" are around the main lobby. Each room has a two queen/ one king option along with a sitting area and pull down toddler bed. This resort is a bit bigger than the Port Orleans French Quarter and has more activities during the day. The staff also seem to be a bit more accommodating at this resort.
The hotel has buses going to all other parks along with a boat that takes you to Downtown Disney. There is also boat, kayak, bicycle, and suri rentals outside the lobby. Prices range from $160 to $230 per night, depending on time of year.
Coronado Springs Resort
Good for couples, budgets, those looking for more food options
This resort is a similar price to the Port Orleans, but does not include the toddler bed option in king and queen rooms. The Coronado Springs Resort is quite large. Because of this, there are plenty of food options, especially when compared to most other resorts in the budget point. If you are a couple or a family with older children, this hotel is a great option. Park buses are in no short supply and there are plenty of stops outside most the hotel buildings. Like the Port Orleans, this hotel also has boat rentals along with plenty of activity options.
Coronado Springs has a quick shop food option along with a super nice bar and restaurant. There are also plenty of outdoor dining areas by there one, giant pool area. Prices range from $160 to $250 per night depending on time of year.
The Swan and Dolphin Resort
Good for Starwood members, families, the best beds at Disney, and dining
Disclaimer, the Swan hotel is my favorite hotel in the entire Disney World Resort. This is the only non-Disney hotel on the property that has all the perks of being a Disney hotel guest. Plenty of buses, boats to Hollywood Studios and EPCOT, character dining, about twenty different restaurants, and ultra nice customer service. This hotel also has Sheraton Hotel beds and rooms. Can I say again, it is fantastic.
There is one large pool between the two hotels along with plenty of dining options in each. The Dolphin is more of the family based hotel while the Swan tends to be for more adult guests. Both hotels are a walk away from Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, the Boardwalk (and all the Boardwalk entertainment), and the Yacht and Beach Club. Rooms range in price from $150 to $350 depending on suite option and time of year.