The Contemporary Resort at Walt Disney World: Is the Iconic A-Frame Worth the Splurge?

When it comes to Walt Disney World, the hotels are part of the magic. From value resorts that won’t break the bank to deluxe ones that feel like a splurge-worthy retreat, there’s something for everyone. Let’s briefly break down the categories before we dive into the very iconic Contemporary Resort.

Value, Moderate, and Deluxe Resorts: What's the Difference?

1. Value Resorts: These are your budget-friendly options, with bright theming and basic amenities. Think larger-than-life characters and pools that scream fun.

   
   

2. Moderate Resorts: A step up in both price and charm. You’ll get more dining options, a bit more space, and a touch of luxury.

   
   

3. Deluxe Resorts: The cream of the crop. These resorts boast prime locations, extensive amenities, and chef’s kiss dining options. They also come with a deluxe price tag.

   
   

The Contemporary Resort is firmly in the deluxe category—but is it worth it? Let’s find out!

Contemporary Resort Overview

If you’ve ever seen a picture of the monorail zipping through a massive A-frame building, congratulations! You’ve seen the Contemporary Resort, one of Disney’s OG hotels. Staying here means you’re practically neighbors with Cinderella Castle and surrounded by pixie-dusted perks.

Amenities

Here’s what you can expect when you check into this iconic Disney resort:

• Location: Walking distance to Magic Kingdom (yes, you can literally stroll over to the castle). Plus, it’s just a quick monorail ride to EPCOT and other deluxe resorts for some epic resort hopping.

  
  

• Dining: Options galore! From the high-end California Grill to the family-friendly Chef Mickey’s, your taste buds are in for a treat.

  
  

• Room Sizes: Spacious and modern with plenty of storage—ideal for those inevitable Disney shopping sprees.

  
  

• Pools and Recreation: Enjoy the feature pool with a waterslide or relax at the quieter leisure pool. There’s even a lakeside marina for water sports.

  
  

• Extended Evening Hours: Guests at deluxe resorts get extra time in the parks on select nights—score!

The Pros and Cons of the Contemporary Resort

Pros:

1. Prime Location: You can’t beat being able to walk to Magic Kingdom. And the monorail access? Chef’s kiss. It’s perfect for park-hopping or grabbing dinner at another resort.

   
   

2. Extended Park Hours: Deluxe perks include extended evening hours at the parks, so you can enjoy a quieter, less crowded experience.

   
   

3. Dining Options: With multiple restaurants on-site, including character dining at Chef Mickey’s, you’ll never go hungry.

   
   

4. Spacious Rooms: The rooms are large, modern, and offer plenty of storage for all those Mickey ears you bought.

   
   

5. Iconic Vibes: Staying in the A-frame building is like living inside a Disney postcard.

Cons:

1. The Price: This hotel is one of the most expensive on Disney property. Budget travelers, beware.

   
   

2. Quick-Service Dining: The Contempo Café (the quick-serve option) is… fine, but it’s not going to blow you away.

   
   

3. Crowds: Thanks to its monorail access, the Contemporary attracts a lot of non-guests who come to explore or dine, making it feel crowded at times.

Is the Contemporary Resort Worth It?

Here’s the deal: The Contemporary Resort’s location is unbeatable, and its iconic design makes it a bucket list stay for Disney fans. But is it worth the hefty price tag?

If you’re splurging, there are other deluxe resorts on the monorail loop (like the Polynesian or Grand Floridian) that offer a more luxurious experience for the same—or slightly higher—cost. The Contemporary is a great choice if you prioritize proximity to Magic Kingdom and love the idea of staying in Disney’s most recognizable hotel. Otherwise, you might want to explore other options.

Bottom Line: Nice hotel, amazing location, but not the best value for the price.

Have you stayed at the Contemporary Resort? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!