A Guide to Staying at a Skyliner Resort

When Walt Disney World first announced in 2018 that they were building a Skyliner as a new transportation option, I was so excited. The Skyliner is a gondola system that moves between resorts, EPCOT, and Hollywood Studios. Not only is the Skyliner convenient, and a game changer for those who are staying at a resort that the system is attached to, but it’s also fun and atmospheric. When we asked my toddler what her favorite ride of our most recent trip was, she pointed to the Skyliner! Plus, as a mom, I love the Skyliner because you can roll a single stroller right onto it without having to fold it. Staying at a hotel that’s located on the Skyliner system is a huge perk, so today, we’re sharing our guide to these magical resorts. 

Disney’s Pop Century Resort 

As a 90’s baby, I am well acquainted with nostalgia, and looking at the past fondly. If you’re anything like me, and enjoy a great blast from the past, then Disney’s Pop Century Resort might be perfect for you. This Value Resort is dedicated to fun pop culture highlights from the 1950s to the 1990s. Value Resorts have smaller rooms, but what the Pop Century lacks in square footage, they make up for in creative room configuration. The rooms sleep four and have one queen bed, and then a queen Murphy bed, that folds up into a table - the ultimate space saver! Cool off at the Hippy Dippy Pool, a groovy good time themed after the 1960s. There are two more pools at this resort, including a bowling-themed pool in the 1950s section, and a 1990s computer pool. Head to Everything POP Shopping & Dining for a souvenir and a bite to eat. My favorite thing to get here is the tie-dye cheesecake, which isn’t just delicious, but perfect for those Instagram moments! The resort has one dedicated bus stop if you’re heading to The Magic Kingdom or The Animal Kingdom, and Skyliner access - after a quick transfer at the Caribbean Beach Resort, you’ll be a short flight away from EPCOT or Hollywood Studios!

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

Have a larger family or a group that’s traveling together? Then Disney’s Art of Animation might be the perfect resort for you. With both standard hotel rooms that sleep four, and larger family suites that can accommodate up to six guests, you’re guaranteed to have an incredible trip. The family suites have two full bathrooms and a kitchenette, for ultimate ease when traveling with family. The theming of this resort is what makes it especially appealing for families - with areas and rooms themed after some of Disney’s greatest animation hits, including ‘The Little Mermaid’, ‘The Lion King’, ‘Cars’, and ‘Finding Nemo’. Landscape of Flavors is both convenient and has creative and delicious food, with things for the whole family. My go-to order is the Honey Barbequed Pork Sandwich! When you’re taking a break from the parks, you can enjoy the largest pool at any Walt Disney World Resort, which has a fun ‘Finding Nemo’ theme, and a splash pad for little guests. If ‘Cars’ or ‘The Little Mermaid’ is higher on your child's ‘favorite film’ list, you’ll also find two pools themed to these beloved films. When you’re ready to head to the parks, you’ll have access to either Skyliner or bus!

Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

‘Bermuda, Bahama, come with us to this Disney tropical oasis’. While these might not be the exact song lyrics, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort evokes the feeling of a tropical getaway, complete with swaying palm trees, bright colors, and relaxing hammocks. As the first resort I ever stayed at as a kid, I might be biased towards it, but the atmosphere is relaxing, and feels ‘Disney’. Now that I have a kid of my own, I appreciate the zero-entry pool and playground area for the littles. Big kids will love the waterslide option! Rooms have been recently renovated, and the 5th Sleeper rooms have a pulldown Murphy child-sized bed to accommodate families of five or give families of four multiple sleeping options. The resort is sprawling, which is perfect for peaceful walks. Enjoy great dining options at Sebastian's Bistro, which is one of the most delicious and affordable family-style dining restaurants at Walt Disney World. My favorite treat at the Caribbean Beach Resort is pairing the Seafood Fritters that are served with Passion Fruit Aoli with a Kraken Punch from the Banana Cabana Pool Bar. This resort has one of the main Skyliner hubs, so you’ll be able to go straight to either EPCOT or Hollywood Studios. 

Disney’s Riviera Resort 

Disney's Riviera Resort is the new kid on the block as far as Disney Deluxe Resorts go. Opening at the end of 2019, this elegant resort is themed after some of the great European Riviera destinations - it’s the perfect stay for a couple looking for a romantic getaway, or a family that wants to stay at a Deluxe Resort on the Skyliner! If you’re traveling with a large group, or your family loves to spread out, Disney’s Riviera Resort has 1, 2, and 3-bedroom villas, that are perfect for giving you extra space, with rooms that feel luxurious and high-end. These villas also have extra amenities, like full kitchens and in unit washers and dryers. If you’re anything like me, your morning starts with a Lorelai Gilmore-sized cup of coffee. This resort has one of Disney’s best coffee shops at Le Petite Cafe, where you can get your caffeine fix, as well as some great fast dining bites. If you’re grabbing breakfast at Primo Piatto, don’t miss the Croque Madame - the most delicious way to start your day! You’ll have direct access to EPCOT with the Skyliner, so you can continue feeling the European vibes from your resort, with a day at World Showcase. You can also take the Skyliner to Hollywood Studios, or use the dedicated resort bus stop if you're going to Animal Kingdom or Magic Kingdom.

Staying at a Disney Skyliner Resort guarantees that your family will have a vacation where transportation is a breeze (literally!) As always, Be Our Guest Vacations is here to help plan a trip that your family will treasure for years to come!