There's no getting around it, Disney is expensive. Even a short trip to the Walt Disney World Resort can set a single guest back thousands of dollars. That said, Disney has a wide variety of ways to stay and play that won't break the bank... if you know how to play the system.
Staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel comes with perks and experiences not available at other lodgings, but you don't have to spend like Cinderella to enjoy the magic. In fact, the All-Star Resorts have much more to offer than some might think.
Live like an All-Star
Apart from the campgrounds at Fort Wilderness, the All-Star Resorts (All-Star Music, All-Star Sports, and All-Star Movies) are typically the cheapest places to stay at WDW. That doesn't mean they're necessarily poor quality, but they don't have as many bells and whistles as some of the other properties.
That being said, the resorts do still keep guests immersed in Disney magic as much as they can. They certainly have more of that whimsical flavor than places like The Grand Floridian or the Holiday Inn at Disney Springs.
The All-Star Resorts, in the simplest terms, are Disney-themed hotels. They're exactly what it says on the box, and that's all they need to be. They have beds, a food court, and pools, and that's all most visitors really need. Especially if they plan on spending most of the time in the parks.
If you're anything like this writer, the parks are the main draw. You're up at rope drop and back before the last bus leaves. In the end, all you really need is a place to hang your hat at night.
Speaking from personal experience, All-Star Movies is one of the best places to stay on property for the standard-issue Disney trip. Guests remain surrounded by Disney characters, magic, and more while resting between rides and attractions.
Guests still have transport to both the Disney Parks and Disney Springs, as well as early entry access when staying on the property. The only major factors they don't have access to are the add-ons like the Disney Skyliner, the Boardwalk, or exclusive restaurants like Victoria and Albert's.
It's a very simple case of "you get what you pay for." For many, a trip to Walt Disney World means focusing on the theme parks and hanging out with Mickey and the gang, and that's all they really need. That said, there's nothing wrong with splurging every couple of trips.
As many of the resorts undergo refurbs this year, it might be time for many die-hard Disney fans to give the All-Stars a second look. If nothing else, it will at least save a few bucks on your next trip to the resorts.
Where do you like to stay at WDW?