Ok, so you’ve decided you want to honeymoon at Walt Disney World, but how on earth do you decide where to stay? With 20 on-property resorts managed by Disney, plus a plethora of other properties run by other hotel groups in the area, the decision can be overwhelming.
Before I begin, it’s important to understand that there is a difference between on-property and off-property resorts. The term “on-property” resorts means those that are managed by Disney, while those that are “off-property” are managed by other hotel groups such as Hilton, Hyatt, etc. I have had experience staying at both types, and I would highly recommend staying on-property for reasons that are too lengthy for the purpose of this post. Maybe this is a topic that I will post about in the future! Because I believe that staying on-property is generally better for most couples, I am only considering on-property resorts for this list.
Without further ado, let's explore the Disney resorts that promise an unforgettable honeymoon experience.
This resort is widely considered to be Disney’s most prestigious, although the Riviera Resort is giving it some serious competition. The rooms here have been recently renovated with a subtle Mary Poppins theme that manages to give the rooms character without any garishness. Part of what makes this property so luxe is its dining options, such as the gourmet AAA Five Diamond Award-winning Victoria and Albert’s, in addition to other sophisticated options such as Narcoosee’s, Citrico’s, and the Enchanted Rose bar. Staying here gives you the convenience of being on the monorail loop to make getting around Walt Disney World easy. Room options include lagoon view and fireworks view to give your honeymoon a little extra magic.
Without leaving the continent of North America, where else can you stay where you can see zebras and giraffes from your balcony? Only Animal Kingdom Lodge. Imagine sipping your morning coffee while gazing out across the animals on the savanna, and then getting ready to head out for a day of fun at the theme parks. If that doesn’t make for a one-of-a-kind honeymoon, then I don’t know what will! If the live animals right outside your window weren’t enough to entice you, this property also has one of the best restaurant line-ups with Boma, Sanaa (next door at the DVC property), and Jiko providing exciting and adventurous dining options.
This has got to be one of the most beautifully landscaped properties at Walt Disney World, and as such it makes a very romantic setting for a honeymoon. This property is themed to the Antebellum South, with two distinct sections. Alligator Bayou is a bit more rustic, while the Magnolia Bend section is designed so that the buildings that house the hotel rooms look like beautiful southern mansions. There is a river running through the property with boats that will take you to Disney Springs, which would be a great way to do a fancy date night or a nightcap at one of the dozens of fantastic bars and restaurants there. You can really go all-out by booking the Royal Rooms, which have elegant princess theming. These rooms don’t personally appeal to me, but I know for many people they are a bucket-list stay!
I get it, you want to honeymoon at Walt Disney World but sometimes you might want a little break from the in-your-face-theming and all the little kids running around everywhere. Or maybe your significant other wasn’t as enthusiastic about a Disney honeymoon as you, and you are looking for a way to compromise. Enter Gran Destino Tower. This property caters to convention-goers, so while it is still beautifully themed to Spanish artists such as Dali and Gaudi, the rooms are a little bit more toned down and neutral in theme than some of the other resorts. To be clear, this is still a Disney resort so there WILL be kids here, but in general this property appeals less to families than some other resorts. If you honeymoon here, be sure to spend a romantic evening at the rooftop Dahlia Lounge. If you plan ahead, you can even try to time your visit with Epcot’s fireworks!
Ultimately, each couple is unique and is looking for a honeymoon that is perfect for them. While theme might be the most important factor for one couple, another might care more about convenience and proximity to certain parks, while still others might be on a tight budget and the price is their most important factor. This is where I come in! As a free travel advisor, I take the time to find out what is most important to you and then use my extensive knowledge to help plan the Disney honeymoon that is best for your unique specifications. If you would like to work with me, please fill out my quote request form at the bottom of this page or send me an email at Kimberly@KingdomDestinations.com.