Disney's Pop Century Resort

I have visited Walt Disney World too many times to count. After staying at most of the Resorts on property, I decided it was finally time to check out a Resort in the Value category. Would I be disappointed in doing so?

Many years ago when I started planning our very first Disney trip, I was told to stay on property for the benefits but to avoid the Value Resorts if at all possible. I had heard the bus service was slow and crowded. The rooms were small. There were not many dining options…and so on. I wanted our family vacation to be wonderful in every way, and THIS did not sound so wonderful. Consequently, I spent years avoiding the Value Resorts on Disney property. But finally, a good friend of mine (who stays at Disney’s Pop Century Resort every single time he visits Disney World) convinced me that I had to check it out! So when a last minute trip resulted in a split stay between Resorts, I decided to take a chance and book Disney’s Pop Century Resort for part of the trip.

When we arrived, I instantly got that amazing Disney feeling that I get at the Moderate and

Deluxe Resorts. I am always impressed with the theming of Disney Resorts, and Disney’s Pop Century was no exception. Different sections of the Resort honor the 50’s, 60’s. 70’s, 80’s and 90’s. My kids LOVED walking the lobby and seeing all of the memorabilia from past decades. The Resort is large (as expected) and it was a hike to our room from the front lobby, but the larger-than-life pop culture icons made it a fun walk!

I was worried that the room would be tight with two teenagers and myself, but it was very comfortable with two double beds (note: rooms with one king-size bed are also available, and I’m keeping this in mind for a future trip without children!). The room was clean and cozy. It came equipped with a mini-fridge that was perfect for chilling our beverages, and the room still had the Disney touches I have come to love at the Moderate and Deluxe Resorts (I always sleep better with Mickey on my bedding!).

During our trip, we had a chance to visit the Everything POP Shopping & Dining in the Classic

Hall. I was pleasantly surprised to find that the food court had a wide variety of quality options on the menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. While we weren’t hungry for a meal during our visit, we WERE ready for a treat! Of course, we HAD to try Pop Century’s signature dessert: The Tie-Dyed Cheesecake. I’ve got one word for that…YUM!

When it’s time for recreation, Disney’s Pop Century Resort (like all Disney Resorts) offers plenty of options. There are three pools to choose from: the Hippy Dippy Pool, the Computer Pool, and the Bowling Pool. The pool areas are large, and drinks are available at the snack bars. Children can enjoy the playground while adults enjoy the New Balance Running Trail near the lake. And in the evening, everyone can kick back and relax with outdoor movies.

When we arrived at the bus stop in the morning, there were rather long lines. Initially, this made me miss the monorail and boat transportation that are available at other Resorts. But I was surprised to see how frequently the buses came, making lines move quickly to whisk us off to the Theme Parks.

I called my friend when I returned and told him I could see how this Value Resort was his favorite. The Guest rooms were more than adequate. The shopping and dining exceeded my expectations. The recreation kept us entertained. Not to mention, guests still get all of the benefits of being a Disney Resort Guest, including: Disney’s Magical Express, Extra Magic Hours, complimentary MagicBands, Disney Transportation, and the ability to purchase a Dining Plan. Overall, I’m confident that a stay at Disney’s Pop Century Resort will not disappoint even the seasoned Disney World traveler!