This Disney World Hotel Used to Be Beloved—Now It’s Falling Apart

Most Disney hotels feel like a dream come true, but one group of resorts consistently gets guests talking for the wrong reasons. Sure, they’re themed, cheap, and come with all the usual Disney perks. But sometimes, a low price isn’t worth the hassle.

Disney Resorts Offer Great Perks… Usually

One of the best parts of a Disney World vacation is staying on property. Whether you choose a deluxe resort with monorail access or a budget-friendly value option, you’re guaranteed key perks: early theme park entry, free transportation, and being fully immersed in the magic from check-in to check-out.

And for many guests, picking a value resort is the best way to stretch a vacation budget while staying close to the action. But a particular group of these lower-priced hotels seems to miss the mark. While they look fun on the surface, they come with more frustrations than most guests expect—and those problems are hard to ignore once you experience them firsthand.

The Budget Resorts That Come With Baggage

Disney has some genuinely great value resort options. However, one particular group of these hotels consistently misses the mark for many guests. We’re talking about the All-Star Resorts: Music, Movies, and Sports.

• Dining Is Limited
  The food courts are fine for basics—pizza, burgers, chicken tenders—but don’t expect much variety or anything memorable. And if you’re hoping for a sit-down dining experience, you’ll need to travel to another hotel or park.

• Rooms Are Basic and Tired
  Even with recent refurbishments, the rooms are still pretty simple. Theming is minimal, space is tight, and walking to your room from the lobby can be a trek unless you pay extra for a “preferred” location.

• Transportation is Bus-Only
  Unlike other value resorts that connect to the Skyliner, the All-Stars rely entirely on buses. There’s no monorail, no boats, no scenic gondolas—just standard buses that can get crowded and often share service among the three resorts.

• Far From the Magic
  Tucked at the edge of Walt Disney World property, these hotels require longer rides to and from the parks. Add multiple resort stops on shared buses, and you’re losing valuable park time just getting around.

• Too Many Large Groups
  These hotels are extremely popular with cheer squads, school bands, and youth sports teams. That means loud rehearsals, crowded dining spaces, and noisy hallways might surround you—not precisely the peaceful retreat you’d want after a long day in the parks.

So… What’s the Better Option?

The All-Stars do the job if you’re just looking for a place to sleep between park visits—but there are better choices for just a bit more money. Pop Century gives you access to the Skyliner and a more modern feel. Art of Animation has family suites and incredible theming for kids.

And if you can stretch the budget a little further, Coronado Springs offers moderate pricing. It comes with upgraded dining, a gorgeous pool, and a quieter atmosphere.

If you want the full Disney experience without the downsides, it might be worth skipping the All-Stars and looking just one tier higher.