Worst Disney Hotels: Why You Should Consider Staying at These 5 Worst Disney World & Disneyland Hotels

Ever wondered why some hotels infamously wear the title of “Worst Disney Hotels”?

It might sound like a warning sign, but there’s more to the story.

What seems like a downside for some can be a big win for others.

It could be lower crowds, cheaper rates, and hidden perks often showing up at the most overlooked resorts.

I’m discussing the five most unpopular Disney World and Disneyland hotels and why giving them a shot can make sense.

If you’re tired of crazy expensive stays and overwhelming crowds, one of these hotels could be exactly what you need.

Sometimes, the least-loved hotels offer comfort, convenience, or even some much-needed nostalgia.

There’s value in going against the crowd—especially when it comes with a smaller price tag and other benefits.

This post is all about why you should consider staying at these 5 worst Disney World and Disneyland hotels in 2025 and beyond.

Table of Contents

Worst Disney Hotels

What Makes a Hotel One of the ‘Worst Disney Hotels’?

Disney hotels have different reputations for a reason.

Some win fans with their theming or service; others end up with a less-glowing status.

Why do people call some properties the “Worst Disney Hotels”? Here’s what actually puts a hotel on that not-so-coveted list.

Value (or Lack of It) for the Price

Disney hotels are not known for being super cheap.

But some resorts can just seem too expensive based on the quality you experience during your stay.

Outdated or Poorly Maintained Spaces

If a hotel shows wear and tear or seems stuck in a past decade, we notice.

When rooms have scuffed walls, outdated beds, or tired decor, it doesn’t make you want to stay there.

Not-So-Magical Locations

Where you stay matters. A big reason Disney hotels end up with poor rankings? Location, location, location. If a resort is far from the action, requires multiple bus connections, or doesn’t offer a quick path to a park, it loses points in guest eyes.

Long walks to the bus stop or long travel times to the parks can feel like a waste of vacation time—as well as being less comfortable in the Florida heat.
Some less expensive Disney hotels trade easy access for a lower price.

Disney fans appreciate hotels that make park-hopping easy and stress-free.

Underwhelming Amenities

When expectations are sky high, even decent pools and food courts can disappoint.

Some hotels may skimp on amenities or never upgrades its dining.

It’s Not One-Size-Fits-All

This part is key: not everyone agrees on which hotels are the worst. Every family looks for something different—some want the cheapest option, others value quiet time or classic theming.

The bottom line? What makes a hotel “the worst” depends on how you define a magical stay. What’s mediocre for one family might be someone else’s favorite hidden gem, especially in a place as big and diverse as Walt Disney World.

The Five Worst Disney Hotels at Walt Disney World and Disneyland

1) Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa – Walt Disney World Resort

Nestled near Disney Springs, Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa is infamous for feeling more like a quiet condo community than a bustling Disney resort.

It’s spread out, often requiring long walks between your room and the lobby or the pool.

The biggest gripes? The resort’s layout can feel overwhelming (due to it being so spacious) and its atmosphere feels lukewarm—especially if you want more character or action. (The horse racing/New York theming is very subtle).

Yet, Saratoga Springs comes through for certain guests. The studios and villas are lower cost when it comes to Deluxe DVC Resorts, making them great for longer stays or more budget stays.

And you’re so close to Disney Springs you can walk! (Or get the water taxi).

Key points to keep in mind:

Pros: Refurbished rooms, easy Disney Springs access, peaceful if you need downtime, easy to book (lots of availability – whether you’re using or renting DVC points).
Cons: Long walks and bland theme
Great for: Families or groups who want to book more last minute (there’s often last-minute availability here). It’s also great for adults-only trips (it was perfect when I stayed here with my Mum in 2023 on a peaceful adult girls trip! We loved it so much that I have since purchased a DVC contract with Saratoga Springs as my Home Resort!).

2) Disney’s All-Star Resort – Movies, Music & Sports – Walt Disney World Resort

You’re not alone if you’ve heard people grumble about the All-Star Value resorts.

Between the noise and crowds of school groups or sports teams, it’s easy to see why this resort winds up as one of the most criticized at Disney World.

That said, it’s usually the cheapest option on property—which is a big reason why it sticks around.

Theming is bright and bold, with larger-than-life footballs and baseball bats everywhere you look at All-Star Sports. Or instruments at All-Star Music. Or Disney movie characters at All-Star Movies.

worst rated disney hotel — The 101 Dalmatians section at Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort

If you’re a sports, music or movies fan or just in it for a budget stay, one of these resorts might be just right.

Main takeaways:

Pros: Extremely low rates (by Disney standards), strong, “over-the-tio” theming, busy social vibe
Cons: Noisy, rooms often feel tired, large school groups often stay in these resorts
Great for: Budget-minded families, youth groups, spontaneous trips

3) Disney’s Pixar Place Hotel – Disneyland Resort

Pixar Pier sits at the bottom of nearly every Disneyland hotel ranking, and for good reason.

You’re farther from the parks than at the other two Disney-owned hotels, the décor feels cheap.

This is the only resort on this list that I haven’t stayed at, but I have visited. It reminded me a little of Disney’s Art of Animation Resort – but with Deluxe pricing.

Most agree that whilst it’s cheaper than the Grand Californian or Disneyland Hotel, it doesn’t quite deliver on Disney magic in the same way.

But for guests looking for the best value and refuse to stay off-property, Paradise Pier is sometimes the least expensive way to get that “Disneyland on-site resort” feeling. But it IS a Deluxe Resort and is NEVER cheap (usually $350+ per night).

If having Disney perks and park views on a budget is your goal, it might just be good enough.

Quick rundown:

Pros: Usually the lowest priced Disney hotel at Disneyland, some rooms have a nice view of California Adventure, exclusive on-site perks
Cons: Newly refurbished, furthest walk to Disneyland, doesn’t feel luxurious, it can be cheaper/a similar price if you rent DVC points to stay at The Villas at Disneyland Hotel or the Villas at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
Great for: Guests who want the cachet of a Disney-owned hotel but don’t need frills

Choosing between Disneyland hotels? My guide to the pros and cons of Disneyland DVC Studios can help you compare some different options on both coasts.

4) Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort – Walt Disney World Resort

Caribbean Beach – a Moderate Disney Resort – gets scolded for confusing pathways, sprawling grounds, and inconsistent room quality.

It’s so big the bus loops can feel endless and if you’re unlucky, your room could be a marathon from the pool or the Skyliner.

Still, there’s charm in the tropical setting and of course, the easy Skyliner access to Epcot and Hollywood Studios.

If you’re willing to sacrifice proximity for a mini-vacation vibe, this place fits. The beachy theming, beautiful feature pool, and playful landscaping deliver something different—and with good planning, you can soak up the best parts of this resort if you choose to stay here.

The Main Things to Consider Here:

Pros: Direct Skyliner access, beautiful landscapes, lots of pools
Cons: Inefficient layout, rooms vary in quality (some are Little Mermaid themed and beautiful, whereas others seem outdated), lots of walking
Great for: Travelers who want easy Disney transportation and love Caribbean theming

5) Disney’s Old Key West Resort

This Deluxe DVC resort often catches flak for its dated style and spread-out buildings.

The relaxed, low-energy feel is a plus to some but a big snooze to others expecting livelier Disney theming and atmosphere.

For families seeking extra space and kitchens in the Villas, though, Old Key West absolutely beats most other DVC resorts for value.

You get decently-sized rooms, serenity, and some of the best bang for your buck if you don’t need lots of character or quick park access.

Highlights:

Pros: Spacious rooms, peaceful setting, attractive prices for Disney Villas
Cons: Dull theming, long walks between rooms and amenities, limited food choices
Great for: Larger families, extended stays, travelers wanting a homey escape, or those on an adults-only vacation.

These five hotels may not win popularity contests, but depending on what you need, one of them could still save your trip or your wallet. Some even argue that the “Worst Disney Hotels” are the perfect fit for folks who want a quieter spot, easy savings, or just less time spent elbowing through the crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions Related to Worst Disney Hotels

Which Disney hotel is the best?

Sadly, there’s not an easy, straightforward answer to this. Here are some posts that can help you figure out which Disney hotel may be best for you:

What are the levels of Disney hotels?

There are three levels of Disney hotels at Disney World:

Value Resorts
Moderate Resorts
Deluxe Resorts

At Disneyland, there are only three on-site hotels, and they are all Deluxe.

What is the most reasonable Disney Resort?

Here are the cheapest Disney resorts in each category:

Value Resort – The All-Star Resorts
Moderate Resort – Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort & Spa
Deluxe DVC Resort – Often Disney’s Old Key West Resort
Deluxe Resort – Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Find out more in this post: Cheapest Walt Disney World Resort in Each Category (& Disney Hotel Saving Tips)

Which Disney World hotel is most convenient?

Usually, the resorts with the best transportation are the most convenient (especially if you’re spending most of your time in the parks).

Disney Monorail and Skyliner resorts can offer the most convenience – as well as the resorts in the BoardWalk area.

What is the best Disney World hotels for families?

This will depend on the age of your kids, how many people are in your family, your favourite park and your budget.

Value Resorts will be more cost-efficient, whilst Moderate and Deluxe Resorts generally offer more space and amenities at a higher price.

What is the best Disney World hotels for adults?

As someone who exclusively takes adults-only Disney trips at this point in my life, I have tested plenty of Disney World hotels for adults. In these posts, I break down the best Walt Disney World resorts for adults:

Discovering the Best Disney Resort for Adults: The Top 7 Best Resorts at Disney World in 2025

Unlocking Affordable Magic: The Top 3 Best Value Resorts at Disney World for Adults in 2025

What went wrong with Disney Star Wars Hotel?

The Star Wars Hotel at Walt Disney World has been permanently closed. This post goes into detail about why.

Final Thoughts & Ta Ta For Now

These five “worst Disney hotels” may not win popularity contests, but depending on what you need, they could still save your trip or your wallet.

Some even argue that the “Worst Disney Hotels” are the perfect fit for folks who want a quieter spot, easy savings, or just less time around crowds.

Have you stayed at any of these unpopular Disney hotels? Or would you consider one in the future?

Please share your thoughts in the comments 🙂

This post was all about why you should consider staying at these 5 worst Disney World and Disneyland hotels in 2025 and beyond.