Disney World Moderate Resorts: A Perfect Middle Ground for Your Stay

If you are looking for that sweet spot between affordability and amenities for your Walt Disney World vacation, a Moderate resort might just be your perfect match. These resorts sit between the Value and Deluxe categories, offering more atmosphere, better amenities, and some truly beautiful theming, all while keeping prices below the Deluxe level. I recently spent time at Port Orleans Riverside, Port Orleans French Quarter, and Coronado Springs Resort, and each one showed me a different side of the “moderate” experience. Here is what to expect when you stay at this beloved Disney resort tier, and how it compares to the other levels.

Moderate vs. Value vs. Deluxe: Setting the Scene

As we covered in a recent article, Disney’s Value resorts are bright, fun, and budget-friendly, but rooms are basic, amenities are minimal, and dining usually centers around food courts. Deluxe resorts offer larger rooms, elaborate theming, signature dining, and prime park access, but they come with a hefty price tag. Moderate resorts give you a little more breathing room. The theming is more immersive, the rooms have extra touches you will not find at a Value, and you will find more recreational options around the property. You won’t necessarily get quite the luxury or proximity perks of Deluxe, but the balance between comfort and cost makes this category a favorite for many guests.

Port Orleans Riverside: Peaceful, Spacious, and Full of Charm

My stay at Port Orleans Riverside reminded me why this resort is such a fan favorite. Nestled along the Sassagoula River, the resort blends rustic charm with elegant Southern touches. You’ll find two distinct sections: the stately Magnolia Bend mansions and the cozy Alligator Bayou lodges. As soon as you step onto the property, the atmosphere shifts. There is a slower pace here with shady walkways, winding paths, and bridges arching over the water. It feels peaceful and a bit tucked away, but is still conveniently located.

One standout feature at Riverside is the room layout. Many rooms feature a fifth sleeper bed, making this a popular choice for families of five. The décor fits the Southern theme, with rustic details and touches that nod to the bayou. Storage is plentiful, and there is a sense of space you will not find in most Value resort rooms. The double vanities and privacy curtain in the bathroom area help families get ready in the mornings without feeling crowded.

Around the resort, you’ll find a main pool with a fun waterslide, quiet leisure pools tucked into different sections, and plenty of recreation options including bike rentals, fishing, carriage rides, and nightly campfires. There’s a food court and a table service restaurant, Boatwright’s Dining Hall, which is themed to a riverside shipyard. It is a step up from what you would find at a Value resort, both in variety and atmosphere. One of my favorite perks is the Sassagoula River boat transportation, which connects Riverside and French Quarter to Disney Springs. It is a relaxing way to get off the buses for a bit and enjoy the ride.

Port Orleans French Quarter: Compact, Whimsical, and Full of Personality

French Quarter has long been considered one of Disney’s hidden gems, and after staying there again, I understand why. This resort is the smallest of Disney’s moderates, and that compact layout is a huge advantage. You’re never far from anything, whether it is the lobby, pool, or food court. The theming is pure New Orleans charm: wrought iron details, vibrant colors, lanterns, and playful jazz touches can be found throughout.

The rooms here have been recently refurbished, and it shows. The flooring is a clean faux hardwood, the furniture is updated, and there are thoughtful details like the inset reading lights over the bed and themed artwork featuring Tiana, Naveen, and Louis. There’s a cheerful banquette seating area, queen beds, and a spacious dresser with plenty of outlets and USB ports. I loved the bathroom touches including double vanities, a barn door for privacy, and even a pull-out step stool for little ones.

French Quarter does not have a table service restaurant, but it shares amenities with Riverside, and that includes dining. There is a quick-service location called Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory, and of course, you cannot forget the beignets. Scat Cat’s Club Café serves up the famous Mickey-shaped beignets, and Scat Cat’s Lounge often has live jazz music in the evenings. It’s a uniquely lively yet cozy vibe. The pool area is family-friendly with a whimsical sea serpent slide and plenty of space to relax, though shade is a bit limited.

Transportation here is simple: buses to the parks, and boats down the Sassagoula to Disney Springs. Because of the resort’s size, everything feels close by, which is a major difference from larger Moderate or Value properties where walking to your room can feel like a never-ending trek at the end of a long park day.

Coronado Springs and Gran Destino Tower: Elevated and Elegant

Coronado Springs is unlike any other Moderate, thanks largely to Gran Destino Tower. This resort blends Southwestern and Spanish influences with modern design, and serves as both a vacation spot and a convention hotel. It is sprawling, with multiple themed sections including Casitas, Ranchos, and Cabanas, plus the impressive tower rising at the center. The overall vibe is more polished and adult-friendly than some other Moderates, but it’s still a great choice for families.

The rooms at Gran Destino Tower especially feel like they belong in a higher category. During my stay, I was struck by the elegant finishes: barn doors separating the bathroom area, sleek vanities with lots of counter space, rainfall showers, and built-in storage. It is noticeably more luxurious than what you’ll find at Riverside or French Quarter. Even the lighting feels elevated, with modern fixtures and a warm, welcoming glow.

Dining is where Coronado really shines. You will find a range of options that rival many Deluxe resorts. Three Bridges Bar and Grill sits on the water and offers beautiful sunset views. Toledo, located at the top of Gran Destino Tower, is a signature dining experience with excellent food and panoramic views. There are multiple lounges, quick-service options, and pool bars scattered around the property. Whether you are grabbing a coffee in the Barcelona Lounge or enjoying sangria on the lake, the resort offers more variety than any other Moderate.

The Dig Site pool complex is one of the largest on property, featuring a towering Mayan pyramid, waterslide, hot tub, and playground. There are also multiple quiet pools spread throughout the resort. The downside to Coronado’s size is the walking you’ll have to do to get from Point A to Point B. It’s expansive, and getting from one side to the other can take time. Thankfully, the internal bus system and strategically placed amenities help balance this out.

Who Should Choose a Moderate Resort?

Moderate resorts are ideal for guests who want more than the basics without splurging on Deluxe prices. Families who need extra space or that fifth sleeper bed will love Riverside. Couples or anyone who values a compact, walkable layout will likely adore French Quarter. Guests who want a more elevated, resort-focused stay should consider Coronado Springs, especially Gran Destino Tower, for its upgraded feel and dining options.

Compared to Value resorts, Moderates give you more theming depth, better pools, additional recreational activities, and nicer room finishes. They offer a sense of place that is immersive without being overwhelming. Compared to Deluxe, you won’t get quite the same level of proximity to the parks or high-end touches, but the value for what you receive is undeniable.

Final Thoughts

Moderate resorts really do offer a perfect middle ground. Whether you’re here for family fun, a romantic getaway, or a mix of both, these resorts deliver a memorable Disney experience that balances comfort and cost beautifully. For many guests, that “moderate” label does not mean compromise. It means the best of both worlds.