Is Deluxe Really Worth It at Disney and Universal?
Introduction
So, you’re thinking about (or maybe already planning) a trip and one of the first decisions you’ve got to make is where to stay. For some, this is easy because they already know exactly what they are looking for in a resort; but, if you are like most people, you are probably looking at the endless lists of choices trying to compare them and your head is spinning. To see an overall comparison of Disney World Resorts, check out this post! Both Disney and Universal offer a variety of great hotel options at various price points, but I want to talk about those resorts with prices you see that leave you adjusting your messy bun and wondering “Is staying deluxe really worth it?”
What are deluxe resorts?
Deluxe resorts (premier at Universal) are the resorts with the most amenities, largest rooms, and typically the most convenience. They are truly something to relish. Let me begin by telling you the rooms themselves at these resorts are the largest of traditional style rooms available. Many of them have bed space for 5 along with ample storage and floor space. The rooms have very comfortable beds in my experience and some very elegant touches. At this point you may be thinking you don’t need a fancy room – but keep reading, I’m getting to the good stuff!
What amenities do you get when staying at a deluxe resort?
For many travelers, amenities alone will help them determine if staying deluxe is really worth it at Disney or Universal. The restaurants, pools, transportation, and service at these places are undeniably amazing. Do you want pools with water slides, cabanas, a sand play area, and a lazy river? They’ve got it! You want the most convenient transportation options so you don’t have to fold that stroller up 976 times in a week – deluxe resorts have it! Do you want to have breakfast with Mickey at your hotel? They’ve got that too! Want to be able to walk to the theme parks?? Deluxe resorts have you covered. The convenience factor at these resorts is almost too good to be true. (If you want to know more about getting around the resorts, check out this post!)
Do you get extra perks when you stay at a deluxe resort?
The short answer is yes! These vary significantly between Disney and Universal but they are both BIG selling points. Let’s talk a little about both.
Deluxe Resort Perks at Walt Disney World
At Walt Disney World when you stay in a deluxe resort, not only are you eligible for early entry each day (this is a perk for all on-site resorts) you also qualify for extended evening hours. This is a special time in the parks when only guests of deluxe resorts are allowed in. Usually, these hours are at Magic Kingdom and EPCOT but I have recently seen some Hollywood Studios nights sprinkled in there as well. The crowds are SO LOW during these nights. It is an incredible way to spend time in the parks and get to those rides your kids are dying to get on or even hit your favorites over and over again. There is no additional cost for this, you just need a valid theme park ticket for the day.
Premier Resort Perks at Universal Orlando
At Universal, when you stay at a premier resort you get FREE unlimited express passes (a skip-the-line pass) for everyone in your room. WHAT?! This is a crazy value – seriously – you can purchase them on your own for a minimum of $115/person/day. I have run the numbers so many times and staying premier and getting them free is ALWAYS the better deal.
What makes staying deluxe worth it?
So, are these deluxe resorts really worth it at Disney and Universal? I realize not every trip can be deluxe. Trust me, I’ve had my fair share of trips at off-site hotels, values, and moderates as well. But, when I’m traveling with my kids, I’ll do just about anything to make the trip easier on me so I can relax and enjoy it with them. I’m here to tell you; if you are wanting a resort with spacious rooms, top-notch amenities, and the ultimate convenience factor – staying deluxe will be worth every penny!