Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort: A Disney World Resort Review

Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort is a Disney Value Resort hotel featuring giant icons that salute classic Disney films such as Disney·Pixar’s Toy Story, Fantasia, The Love Bug, The Mighty Ducks and 101 Dalmatians. All Star Movies Resort is one of the most “Disney” themed resort choices, complete with larger than life icons! Located in the Disney’s Animal Kingdom Resort Area, All Star Movies is a must for all kids, no matter what age! If you love the classic Disney movies you will love this resort and all of the magical Disney themes!

NEW Update!

Disney has began a complete refurbishment process for all of the All Star Resorts, beginning with All Star Movies. We recently visited and were given a newly refurbished room! These updates are HUGE! Queen size beds will replace the full/double size beds and each room will now offer a coffee maker! Also, one of the beds is a fold out bed, giving you a lot more space when the bed is not in use. Super cute! You will also find TONS of storage, from the main dresser to bedside tables with more space and charging areas for your phones and devices. We LOVED this feature!

Rooms

Guest rooms are divided into 5 pairs of 3-story buildings. Each pair is themed after one of these following featured movies: Fantasia, Toy Story, 101 Dalmatians, Mighty Ducks and The Love Bug. Fantasia, Toy Story and 101 Dalmatians sections are considered “preferred” and are priced just a little higher than the standard rooms. Preferred rooms are guaranteed to be located closer to bus stops and the food court.

All rooms will have either two queen beds or one king size bed. These rooms are pretty standard, but will be great for those on a budget or for those who like some extra “Disney” theming. All rooms also have a beverage cooler for keeping drinks and a few perishables chilled.

Cinema Hall

Cinema Hall is where you will find everything you need while on your magical vacation. This is where you will find guest services, shopping, dining and tons of fun!

DINING: What would you expect at an “All Stars Movies” resort in lieu of dining options? Well, that would be a World Premiere food court, of course! Five movie marquees are waiting with some great options in dining. You will find the basics, such as pizzas, burgers and more. You will also find options such as pastas, grilled items, specialty items and delicious bakery items. You may also find one of the new iridescent cupcakes!

I have to say, this was one of the best food courts we have dined in! The BBQ grilled chicken sandwich is a SUPERSTAR! Be sure to ask about the SECRET MENU!

You may also want to check out the Silver Screen Spirits pool bar, located next to the Fantasia pool. Grab a nice cocktail and relax while the kids swim and splash around! I do have to recommend the Pina Colava!

ARCADE: The kids will want to check out the Reel Fun arcade with state of the art arcade games. This is a great place for the kids to play while you get to shop a little.

Recreation and Pools

The larger than life Fantasia themed pool is right outside of Cinema Hall and comes complete with Sorcerer Mickey spraying water. For smaller ones, there is a kiddie pool and splash area nearby.

LAUNDRY: No one really wants to think about laundry on a Disney vacation, but sometimes, it is a must! There are a couple of spots for doing this “dirty deed” around the pool areas of the resort. There is one at the main Fantasia pool and one at the Mighty Ducks pool area. For more info on laundry in Disney World, just click the link!

MOVIES UNDER THE STARS: Of course All Stars Movies has Movies Under the Stars, which you can catch at The Reel Spot near the food court. After a long day at the parks, this is a great way to relax and unwind! Don’t forget to stop by the pool bar for a little adult beverage!

EXTRAS: For those who like to stay in shape while on vacation, there is a jogging trail. There is also a playground located between the Fantasia and Toy Story sections of the resort.

Getting to the Parks

This resort has bus service to and from each park and sometimes will share a bus with the other All Star Resorts. The bus stop is right in front of Cinema Hall.

Tips

• Those who prefer a lower traffic, quieter area, should request the Love Bug buildings.
• Guests staying in the Mighty Ducks buildings may find it closer to catch the bus at the stop in front of the All Star Music Resort’s Melody Hall.
• Be sure to leave in plenty of time for dining and other “timed” events. This resort will sometimes share it’s bus service with the other All Star Resorts and sometimes takes a little longer.

Have you stayed at All Stars Movies? What was your experience like? Be sure to head to our Facebook page, DISNEY EXPRESS LANE to tell us all about it and discuss all things Disney!

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During the early stages of planning a Walt Disney World trip, most people will consider a crucial question, “Should we stay on Walt Disney World property?”  Most families consider this question because they know that there are cheaper options in the Orlando area, and let’s face it…we are all looking for ways to save money and still have a magical vacation.  However, sometimes saving money isn’t the only thing we should consider, especially when booking a Walt Disney World vacation.  Walt Disney World is known for providing magical experiences to all guests, but the enchantment is extended when you choose to stay on property at one of the twenty-eight Disney owned resorts and villas.  Let’s explore the Top 10 Reasons YOU Should Stay On Property at Walt Disney World.

#10. The Magical Express

The moment Walt Disney World resort guests step off the plane, they are treated to some Disney magic.  At the Orlando International Airport, a motorcoach awaits to whisk guests to their hotel.  Resort guests don’t need to bother with baggage claim because Disney has thought of that too.  Bags are delivered to the resort rooms within a few hours so that guests can check in and get right to the fun at the parks or savor a delicious meal at one of the numerous locations on property.  Not only having a motorcoach pick you up at the airport convenient, it is also a big money saver.  Based on the taxi fare estimator tool on www.mearstransportation.com, Disney’s Magical Express can save you over $120 on taxi fares to and from the airport.

#9. Complimentary Magic Bands

Every guest that stays on property receives a free magic band that will work as their room key.  The complimentary magic band also works as your tickets into the theme parks, and the bands are linked to your FastPass+ selections.  If you stay on property, you also have the option of linking a credit or debit card to your Magic Band to make purchases and dining charges more convenient.  You can still purchase a Magic Band if you are not staying on property, but they come at a hefty price.  Each band will set your family back $12.95, which for a family of four can add up to well over $50.

#8. Package Delivery

All Walt Disney World guests can have their in-park purchases sent to the front gate for pick-up as they leave.  However, guests staying at Walt Disney World Resorts receive an additional perk; souvenir purchases can be sent directly to a guest’s hotel.  This perk can be a lifesaver when you are dragging tired, grouchy children (and adults) out of the parks at the end of a magical, yet long day of touring.

#7. Early Access to Fast Pass+

That’s right. If you are staying in a Disney World Resort, you will get early access to your fast pass planning. A full 30 days BEFORE guests staying off-site. 60 days before your vacation begins, you are able to make fast passes in advance. This is a HUGE perk!

#6. Disney Dining Plan

Walt Disney World offers several dining plans to meet any family’s needs, but you can only purchase this plan if you are staying at one of the Disney World resorts.  Some families don’t purchase the dining plan because even the smallest plan includes a lot of food, but most families really like it for the convenience of being able to prepay for meals.  There are numerous on-site options for dining and every hotel has a food court or quick service option.  On-site guests who add the dining plan also receive a resort refillable mug that can be refilled at the resort all day with soda, coffee, tea, and hot chocolate.  If convenience is key to enjoying your vacation, then the dining plan is a perfect add-on to make resort stays even better.

#5. Proximity to the Parks

If you choose to drive to the parks, being close can be a huge benefit to your budget and sanity.  Most resorts are mere minutes away from the parks, whereas many of the off property locations will require at least a fifteen to twenty-minute commute.  Minimal travel time between your hotel and the theme parks is also helpful when you have young children or elderly family members who may need a mid-day nap to stay fresh and upbeat.  Even better, if you choose to stay in one of the deluxe resorts on property, you could walk to a theme park in the amount of time most off property guests spend just getting into the parking lot.

#4.  Complimentary Transportation

If you are like most adults, driving in a city you are not familiar with is not your idea of fun.  Luckily, Walt Disney World resort guests never have to worry about getting behind the wheel during their stay.  Transportation is offered to and from every resort and theme park on-site. Complimentary transportation can be a big time saver when visiting the Magic Kingdom; if you are staying off site you have to park at the Ticket and Transportation Center and then take the monorail or ferry over to the entrance.  Resort guests simply take a bus or monorail straight to the entrance, which can save upwards of thirty minutes on a busy day.

Walt Disney World resort drivers are all well-trained, and a lot of them are even entertaining.  It is not uncommon to hear stories of bus drivers making guests feel special on a birthday or other occasion.  One friend’s experience always comes to mind when I think about bus drivers making this service extraordinary.  My friend had planned a very special dinner at Cinderella’s Castle and her daughter was dressed in her favorite Cinderella costume and accessories.  As they boarded the bus, the bus driver made a huge deal over the young lady and even got over the bus intercom system and announced that they had a very special guest on board.  He asked that all guests be on their very best behavior as they were all in the presence of a true Disney princess.  Two years later, the child still gushes over how a bus driver thought she was a real princess and the mother tells that particular story to others with tears in her eyes.

#3.  No Hidden Resort Fees 

Many resorts and hotels in the Orlando area have hidden resort that are not disclosed in their advertised prices.  In contrast, Disney World includes all fees in their advertised resort prices, even taxes.  My husband and I once arrived in Orlando a day early, and instead of calling to see if Disney had any rooms available, we booked a four star resort for $60 on one of the name your own price websites.  We thought we were getting a steal, but after we paid the resort fee, the parking fee, and the taxes, that $60 turned into $103 for one night.  We could have stayed at a value resort for just a few dollars more and enjoyed extra magic hours and other insider perks. As of March 21, 2018, Disney World will begin charging parking fees.

#2.  Extra Magic Hours

One of the most well-known and well-loved perks that Walt Disney World provides to resort guests is Extra Magic Hours.  Guests who have magic bands linked to an on-site resort are treated to an additional hour before parks open or after they close.  Disney usually offers one early morning EMH at one of the parks and sometimes provides an evening EMH at a different park.  The evening extra magic hours are the real bonus for those families who can stay up late; instead of a single hour before the park opens to the public in the morning, Disney typically provides an additional two hours for park touring at night.  If you are going at a very busy time of the year, Extra Morning Hours can help your family see twice as much as they could without the bonus.

#1. Disney Magic

The #1 reason to stay on property is something you simply can’t put a price tag on.  Some people call it pixie dust, some call it Disney magic, but those who have worked in the service industry recognize it for what it truly is,  the best customer service you will likely ever encounter on a vacation.  Let’s face it, the reason most people come back to Walt Disney World is because of the way the cast members make visitors feel.  From greeting you like an old friend when you arrive at your resort, to keeping the parks spick and span, these cast members go above and beyond to ensure that each person who steps foot on Disney property is treated as though they are the only guest there.  When you stay at a Walt Disney World Resort, you don’t ever have to leave that magical bubble where happy thoughts and pixie dust keeps each day of your vacation magical and special.

So, those are my top 10 reasons for staying on property at Walt Disney World in Florida.  Do you agree that staying on-site is worth the money?  We at Walt Express would love to hear how your last trip to a Disney destination was magical, whether because of an on-site resort stay or some other experience.  Until next time, we hope that your days are filled with faith, trust and pixie dust.

Updated 4/16/2018

~Grace

If you would like a quote for your next magical Disney vacation go HERE

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Sports enthusiasts will definitely be excited to stay at this amazing Disney World resort. Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort is considered a Value Resort and located in the Animal Kingdom Resort Area. Read all about it in Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort: A Disney World Resort Review.

This budget friendly resort is decorated in just that, sports, along with bright and bold colors that represent football, tennis, baseball, basketball and surfing.

Rooms

Although All Star Sports rooms are slightly smaller than a moderate resort room, it still packs a punch with all of the onsite amenities that other resorts have on property.

Extra Fun Stuff

Disney’s All Star Sports Resort has two pools. The main pool, Surfboard Bay pool, which is located behind the Stadium Hall (the resort’s central area). The Grand Slam pool is the quieter pool of the two and is located in front of the Home Run hotel. Both are perfect for quenching the Florida sun and cooling off after a “hard day” at the parks or for a day you would like to take a day off from all of the hustle and bustle of the parks.

If swimming isn’t your thing, All Star Sports also has a jogging path for those who like to stay active or The Game Point Arcade that will provide hours of entertainment for kids of all ages. 

Dining

All Star Sports Resort is not known for their sit down dining options, especially since there is none. 🙂 But, it is equipped with a quick service dining experience: End Zone Food Court. You will find meals like pizza, chicken nuggets and fries. Be sure to grab a refillable mug while you are there. 

Transportation

Each of the All Star Resorts has buses dedicated to run from resort-to-park and return. However, at some times during the day, the buses from a park may drop guests off at all 3 resorts. This is especially true at night after a park closes or different times of the year. So make sure you ask before making a reservation at this resort.

Extra Tips

• If you want a room close to the food court and bus stop, request the Surfs Up or Touchdown buildings. If you want a little quieter location, request Hoops Hotel or Center Court.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• The price that you will pay for a value resort is great. You are only sleeping and showering there, and yes, it’s still Disney style!
• Over the top, Disney theming. Of course, this is what a lot of people want. The decor is always bright and cheerful!

Cons

• The buses do not go directly to the parks. They stop at all of the All Star Resorts.
• There are no table service restaurants in any of the value resorts.

Before settling on a resort, check out some of our top secrets of Disney World Resorts!

Join the Disney Express Lane Facebook Group to discuss this and many other Disney related topics.

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Disney’s Pop Century: A Disney World Resort Review

Update 2/18/2018

This resort has been going through a lengthy refurbishment and is almost complete. The main focus on the refurbishment has been the rooms. We are really impressed with these magical changes! Some rooms will now feature a fold down Murphy bed, for maximum space. Also added, is a coffee bar/area with extra space!

Disney’s Pop Century Resort is in the “value” family of Disney Resorts and has been around since the new millennium. Being one of Disney’s newest resorts, it boasts bright colors, larger than life Disney icons and tons of “Disney style”. We have stayed in this “out of sight” resort many times and always find new and fun things to do. On our last trip, we found the coolest little spot with a huge TWISTER game nestled between a few trees…my boys played there for an hour (Mom just watched…hey, I wanted to enjoy the rest of our trip, WITHOUT any broken bones!).

Decades

Pop is divided into “decades”, meaning each decade is represented by a different building. The buildings run along Hourglass Lake and connects to Art of Animation by “Generation Gap Bridge”. We love to run over (OK, we all know I do not run, but walk briskly) over to Art of Animation’s playground, just across the bridge. It is beautiful!

The “decade buildings” house only 4 room types, which makes it easy to choose. Those include: Standard, Preferred, Standard Pool View and Preferred Pool View. The preferred locations are in the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s buildings. “Preferred” simply means you will be guaranteed a closer room to bus stops and the “Everything Pop” area. Our family is willing to pay the extra money (which is usually around a $15-$20 per night difference) for a preferred room, just because Pop Century is large resort and we like to save our walking for the parks! All buildings do have elevators for easier access. Check out a map of Pop Century right here: Pop Century Resort Map.

The “Crib” or “Pad”

Now, don’t go to thinking just because Pop Century is a value resort that it lacks anything. In fact, the values are more “Disney decorated” than the moderate resorts. The room layouts are just normal rooms-nothing fancy, except for great Disney themes all over the place, which we LOVE! Your standard room will have two full-size beds, a dresser, blah, blah, blah…who cares, you are in Disney World and all you need is a nice place to sleep and shower, with “Mouse-keeping” of course. “Mouse-keeping” makes your bed, cleans your room and bathroom, all while you are gone to have a fun filled day!

There are king size rooms and handicapped accessible rooms available, as well. You will have it all right here in Pop Century!

“Splashing” in the Past

One of the most unique and fun places around Pop Century Resort are the fun and interesting pool areas! In keeping with the “past”, you will find three pools to keep you cool and refreshed! “Hippy Dippy Pool” is located just right outside of “Everything Pop” and is complete with “Petals” pool bar for a grown-up treat! A kiddie pool is close by for smaller swimmers. There are two other “psychedelic” pools nearby, as well! In the 1950’s section of the resort, you will find the “bowling pin” pool and over in the 1990’s section, you will find the “computer” pool!! Don’t worry, you won’t get an “electrical shock” by jumping on in!

Everything Pop

Everything Pop is where you will find everything you need such as resort check-in and concierge, shopping, dining and even an arcade! Yes, the Fast Forward Arcade will keep your little ones (and big ones) busy for quite a while.

Speaking of food, yes, I know this is everyone’s favorite part…Pop Century does have one of the best food courts around! There are many different varieties available including: “build your own pastas and salads”, flatbread, Ethnic cuisines and tons more. Of course, the regular burgers, chicken and pizza are available for those pickier eaters. Breakfast options are also available during the mornings. “Everything Pop” is the ONLY place you can get the famous TIE-DYED CHEESECAKE. Yes, it is as delicious as it looks!

During various times during the day, all of the cast members stop and dance to top hits of the decades, making you ready to do “The Twist” while you dine!

Getting to the Parks

The big bonus to this resort is the fact that it is the only value resort that does not share a bus with other resorts. This simply means, NO STOPS…straight to the parks and straight back! Park buses are located right in the front of “Everything Pop”…you can’t miss it! Next to the bus area, you will find Magical Express and luggage pick-up/drop off. This is area is super fun, you never know what will be there for the kids to enjoy including larger than life building blocks, hula hoops, bubbles and more!

POP Extras and Tips

• Pop Century is about to get even better. Refurbishments will begin in October 2016.
• Bring your running shoes and take advantage of the one-mile jogging trail around the resort!
• Movies under the Stars are available most nights-check your room for movie titles and times.
• A “far-out” playground awaits your little ones in the 70’s section of the resort!

We hope to catch YOU on the “flip-side” at Pop Century Resort!

I truly hope you have enjoyed Disney’s Pop Century: A Disney World Resort Review and have found it helpful. Have you had the chance to stay here? Tell us what you thought about it!

Be sure to check out our Facebook group: Disney Express Lane for all things Disney!

photo credit: H. Semon (a BIG thank you for your photography skills and for sharing with Walt Express!!)

photo credit: Disney Pop Century Resort via photopin (license)

photo credit: Pop Century Resort room via photopin (license)

photo credit: Disney Pop Century Resort via photopin (license)

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