Graduation Celebration Resort Selection

When we began planning this trip we knew we wanted a full week.  My husband has been working very hard and we've been lucky enough to take a few vacations along the way (2 Walt Disney World trips and a few cruises) but this trip was special and we really want to let loose and relax...and CELEBRATE! After we decided on the cruise, we thought about our pre-cruise stay. So here is the plan!

Wednesday- We'll leave around dinner to head to the airport. We are flying out of the next city over at 5 a.m. the next morning so we booked a stay and fly rate at a hotel nearby the airport.

Thursday-Fly out bright and early! Direct to Orlando where we'll hop in our rental car and head straight to the parks. We'll play until Sunday where we'll pick up friends and head to the Port (more on that later).

So we  knew we'd be at Disney for 3 nights...but WHERE to stay?  Let's take a look at this...we'd only be there 3 nights and since we had no kids with us, we won't be in the room much. Budget is a concern since we are cruising too BUT we are celebrating.



Value Resort-We debated this one as it would allow us to spend more of our budget on dining.  We really wanted to splurge a little since the kiddies aren't with us though.

Deluxe Resort-We looked at several options here including Disney's Boardwalk but ultimately we didn't want to spent that much of our budget on just 3 nights. If we were going during Food and Wine Festival it might be enticing but for this whirlwind trip, it didn't make sense.

Moderate- This is where we ultimately decided we felt comfortable...a great price point and something a little more "adult".  But how do we narrow it down!?

Coronado Springs- We've stayed here a few times in the past few years and it's not hubby's favorite.  I personally love it here. It's quiet and peaceful and it's got some great dining options.  However it is LARGE!

Caribbean Beach- Right now this is the one resort I don't love. It gets various housekeeping complaints, we don't love the decor and not only is this resort HUGE but it has too many bus stops (even though we'll have a car).

Riverside- My husband has never stayed here before but once we narrowed down our choices and excluded the two above, it was kind of a no brainer.  We LOVED French Quarter and even though we were just here, we are going to stay again!

Why we LOVE Port Orleans French Quarter!

1. Size
We love the small size of this resort. Last time we got an AMAZING room location but even if we were at the furthest end of the resort, it's still not that far of a walk!

2. Proximity to the Parks
I know what you are thinking...you are on Disney property so of course you are close! Port Orleans French Quarter is just minutes from EPCOT and Magic Kingdom, plus we are right down the road from Animal Kingdom. It's perfect for this trip!

3. Rooms
We loved the rooms here. Plenty big enough for 4 of us, much less 2. The decor is simple, not overstated, not too bright...just perfect!

4. Grounds
It's just so pretty here. The biggest difference to me between the value and moderate resorts is the energy...this resort is so quiet and calm...just peaceful. Exactly what we need!

5. Price
Right in the  middle of the road as far as price goes! No, it's not as inexpensive as a value resort but it's no where near as pricey as a Deluxe BUT you get some great amenities (Described above).  It's the perfect fit for this trip!