6 Best Budget Walt Disney World Resorts

We all know that vacationing can be quite expensive for the wallet, but don't let that stop you! While living in Orlando, the theme park capital of the world, and working for Walt Disney World for just under a decade, I have spent a great deal of time at some of the best resorts on property. Who said you need to dish out thousands of dollars on a hotel to have a great vacation? Being able to relax in an affordable way allows you to spend your money on other items or experiences such as fun merchandise, food and drinks inside the park, photos with your beloved Disney characters, or even more magical memories. Below are my list of most affordable resorts on Walt Disney World Property in Orlando, Florida!

1. Disney's Port Orleans Resort French Quarter. Romantic and charming with fun New Orleans flair, this resort is a perfect little getaway from the busy parks and moderately priced at just under $250 per night. With close proximity to Disney's Epcot theme park and Hollywood Studios, as well as a relaxing boat ride to Disney Springs shopping and nightlife district, this resort is one you don't want to miss. The dining options here are immaculate, with Cajun style foods straight from the heart of New Orleans, Louisiana, as well as a giant hot tub and water slide perfect for the kiddos after a long hot day in the Florida sun!

Cost per night: $250

Closest theme park: Disney's Epcot

2. Disney's Art of Animation Resort. Themed to the most beloved and favorite Disney classic movies such as The Little Mermaid, The Lion King, Cars, and Finding Nemo, this resort is a colorful oasis of vibrant illustrations spanning the lobby, transporting guests into a world full of wonder and whimsy. The food court at this resort is one of the largest on property, as well as the transportation system being one of the fastest and best at Walt Disney World. Priced at $190 per night, this movie themed resort is a great escape for families and kids of all ages, and don't miss out on the Big Blue Finding Nemo pool!

Cost per night: $190

Closest theme park: Disney's Hollywood Studios

3. Campsites at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort. For those who want a cozy escape from reality and to live life a little simpler while on vacation, the campsites at Fort Wilderness Resort is a great option for families who love to spend time outdoors. This nature themed getaway resort is a less conventional option for staying on property, with horseback riding, bonfires, swimming, movie nights under the stars, and more. Don't miss out on making reservations for the Hoop Dee Doo Musical Revue, one of the most famous musicals at Walt Disney World! The price for this resort starts at $70 a night, making it the cheapest option for staying on property if you don't mind small amenities in exchange for one of the most beautiful and serene settings in Orlando.

Cost per night: $70

Closest theme park: Disney's Magic Kingdom

4. Disney's Coronado Springs Resort. This resort is home to one of the largest convention centers in Orlando, if that says anything about the size of this property! A moderate level resort starting at $260 a night, Coronado Springs is one of the best picks for having all of the luxurious amenities paired with several great dining options and the perfect location for travel to Disney's Animal Kingdom theme park. You'll feel as if you stepped in to the gorgeous setting of Mexico City, as this resort is themed to Mexican heritage and culture. Another perk is the transportation shuttle service- this does not share a line with other resorts, so getting to the theme, parks and water parks should take under five minutes.

Cost per night: $260

Closest theme park: Disney's Animal Kingdom

5. Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort. Step inside a tropical paradise at this one-of-a-kind Disney resort, minutes away from Disney's Hollywood studios theme park. With great transportation options like the new Skyliner ride, taking you from park to park, as well as a quick bus service, this resort is perfectly convenient for spontaneous park trips with a relaxing view on the way there. Colorfully themed to the Caribbean islands, this resort offers a large selection of island style bites and unique food options, a quaint food court, and even a pirate themed room for those excited little ones. With a price point of $250 a night, larger scale rooms and gorgeous landscaping throughout property, this resort is one that can't be beat.

Cost per night: $250

Closest theme park: Disney's Hollywood Studios

6. Disney's Pop Century Resort. Welcome to the 1950s! This retro pop themed resort is right next-door a resort I previously talked about, Disney's Art of Animation, and both share similar amenities as well as location to Disney's Hollywood Studios. Pop Century is unique in that features rooms themed to each of the decades from past- 1950s to 1990s, offering a vibrant and fun experience for families and children of all ages. This resort features multiple pools and waterslides, a food court, bowling alley, and video arcade room, where there's enough to do for everyone. Transportation via the Skyliner is also offered at this resort, making it a one of a kind and relaxing way to travel to the parks. Priced at $160 a night, it's one of the most affordable options on this list compared to moderate resorts, but with the space and several amenities, this groovy stay will feel as if you are living in luxury.

Cost per night: $160

Closest theme park: Disney's Hollywood Studios