Disney's Pop Century Resort: A Fun-Filled Blast from the Past!

Planning a trip to Walt Disney World? Let me introduce you to one of my favorite places to stay: Disney’s Pop Century Resort. This vibrant, value resort takes you on a nostalgic journey through the decades, from the groovy '60s to the totally rad '90s. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Disney-goer, Pop Century has something for everyone. So, let's dive into the details!

What’s Pop Century All About?

Disney’s Pop Century Resort is a value hotel, which means it’s perfect for those of us who want all the Disney magic without breaking the bank. With larger-than-life icons from different eras adorning the property, this resort is as Instagrammable as it gets. Imagine lounging by a pool shaped like a bowling pin or walking past a giant Yo-Yo on your way to your room—Pop Century is all about fun and nostalgia.

Room Types and Average Cost

Pop Century offers a variety of room types to suit different needs. Here’s a quick rundown:

• Standard Rooms: These rooms feature two double beds or one king bed, a mini-fridge, and a flat-screen TV. They can accommodate up to four guests. The rooms are cozy but well-designed, making the most of the space available.

• Preferred Rooms: These are similar to standard rooms but are closer to the main building and transportation options. Perfect for those who prefer a shorter walk after a long day at the parks. Plus, the convenience of being near the main hub can’t be overstated when you're dragging sleepy kids back after fireworks.

What Does "Value Hotel" Mean?

In Disney-speak, a value hotel offers more budget-friendly accommodations without sacrificing the magic. While you won’t find luxury amenities like spa services or fancy sit-down dining, you’ll still get the immersive Disney experience with themed pools, food courts, and family-friendly activities. Think of it as the perfect blend of fun and frugality.

Amenities at Pop Century

Here’s a quick look at some of the amenities you can enjoy at Pop Century:

• Themed Pools: Take a dip in one of the three pools, including the Hippy Dippy Pool, Bowling Pool, and Computer Pool. While there’s no slide (I know, total bummer for the kiddos), the pools are still a blast. The Hippy Dippy Pool even has flower-shaped water jets for added fun!

• Skyliner Access: One of the best perks of staying at Pop Century is the Skyliner gondola system. This magical mode of transport takes you to Hollywood Studios, Epcot, and other resorts with ease. No more cramming into buses or dealing with the monorail—just glide through the sky and enjoy the view.

• Food Court: The Everything POP Shopping & Dining food court offers a variety of tasty options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The quality is surprisingly good for a food court, so you won’t be disappointed. From Mickey-shaped waffles to hearty burgers, there’s something to satisfy every palate.

• Fun Theming: The resort's over-the-top theming, with giant Yo-Yos, Rubik's Cubes, and Play-Doh cans, is sure to bring out the kid in everyone. Each decade-themed section is a walk down memory lane, making it a fun and nostalgic experience for guests of all ages.

Activities and Entertainment

Pop Century isn't just a place to sleep—there's plenty to keep you entertained right at the resort:

• Arcade: The Fast Forward Arcade offers a variety of games, from classic arcade games to the latest in video gaming. It's a great way to spend some downtime or let the kids burn off some energy.

• Movies Under the Stars: Enjoy a Disney classic under the night sky. The resort hosts regular outdoor movie screenings, perfect for a relaxing evening.

• Playground: For the little ones, there's a playground where they can climb, slide, and explore to their heart's content.

Pros and Cons of Staying at Pop Century

Pros:

• Skyliner Route: Easy access to Hollywood Studios, Epcot, and other resorts. No need to deal with the bus chaos if you’re heading to these parks! The Skyliner is not just a mode of transport but an experience in itself.

• Updated Rooms: Recently renovated rooms with ample storage and clever space-saving designs. Perfect for squeezing in all those souvenirs. The rooms are bright and modern, with a touch of Disney magic in the decor.

• Good Quality Food: The food court offers a variety of delicious options that won’t leave you craving something better. There’s even a grab-and-go section for those days when you need to dash to the parks.

• Fun Theming: The larger-than-life decorations make for great photo ops and add a playful touch to your stay. It’s like staying in a living, breathing pop culture museum.

Cons:

• No Slide in the Pool: If your kids are slide enthusiasts, they might be disappointed. But hey, there are plenty of other ways to have fun! The lack of a slide is a small trade-off for the themed pool areas.

• No Sit-Down Dining: The lack of a sit-down restaurant might be a dealbreaker for some, but the food court has plenty of choices. For those who prefer a more relaxed dining experience, this could be a downside.

• Long Bus Lines: During peak times, the lines for the bus can be long and a bit frustrating. But remember, patience is a virtue (especially at Disney). Pro tip: Try to avoid the rush hours if possible, or use the Skyliner for a quicker journey.

Final Thoughts

Disney’s Pop Century Resort is a fantastic option for those looking to enjoy all the Disney magic without spending a fortune. With its fun theming, convenient Skyliner access, and updated rooms, it’s a great choice for families and Disney fans alike. Happy planning, and may your Disney dreams come true!

I hope this gives you a good overview of Disney's Pop Century Resort. Ready to book your stay? Trust me, you won't regret it!