Family Trip to Disney in Orlando

Question

We're planning our children's first trip to Disney in Orlando and would like some recommendations for accommodations. We're two adults and three children, ages 8, 7, and 5. If you could recommend places with kid-friendly amenities, that would be great. Thanks!

Answer

Planning your children’s first Disney trip is such an exciting milestone, and choosing the right accommodation can make a huge difference in comfort, convenience, and overall magic. With three young kids, you’ll likely want a place with plenty of space, fun amenities, easy transportation options, and kid-focused features.

Below are several strong recommendations split between on-site Disney resorts and nearby off-site properties, each well-suited for families of five.

Great On-Site Disney Resort Options (Most Convenient)

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort – One of the top choices for families. Their Family Suites sleep up to six and include a separate bedroom for adults, two bathrooms, and a kitchenette. Kids love the themed sections (Finding Nemo, Lion King, Cars). Huge pool areas and one of the best food courts on Disney property. Skyliner access makes getting to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios simple.
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort – Disney’s largest moderate resort with a tropical theme and excellent pool areas. Many rooms sleep five with a child-size pull-down bed. Direct access to the Skyliner makes transportation fast and fun for kids.
Disney’s Port Orleans – Riverside – Another moderate resort with rooms that sleep five (two queens + child pull-down). Beautiful grounds, a great main pool with a waterslide, and easy boat service to Disney Springs for meals and entertainment.
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Cabins – A fantastic option if you want more space and a “cabin in the woods” feel. Each cabin sleeps six, includes a full kitchen, and has lots of outdoor space. Tons of kid-friendly activities like horseback riding, archery, boat rentals, and a campfire sing-along with characters.

Staying on-site also gives you perks like early park entry, Disney transportation everywhere (bus/boat/Skyliner/monorail), and a more immersive experience.

Excellent Off-Site Family-Friendly Options (More Space + Good Value)

Floridays Resort Orlando – Very popular with families because of its spacious two- and three-bedroom suites with full kitchens and washers/dryers. Large pool areas and close to restaurants and grocery stores on International Drive.
Lake Buena Vista Resort Village & Spa – Large condo-style rooms, many with multiple bedrooms. Features a giant pirate-ship themed pool that is a hit with kids. Very close to Disney, and easy parking.
Holiday Inn Resort Orlando Suites – Waterpark – Designed for families with kids. Two-room suites, an on-site waterpark, arcade, nightly entertainment, and shuttle service to Disney parks.
Margaritaville Resort Orlando (plus nearby cottages) – Modern, clean, full of amenities, and extremely family-friendly. The cottages (homes) are spacious and great for bigger families. Access to the Island H₂O waterpark next door.

Tips for Choosing the Best Fit

If convenience and ease of transportation are your priority, choose a Disney on-site resort with Skyliner or monorail access.
If you want more space, a kitchen, and a lower cost per night, go with a suite-style or condo-style off-site property.
For younger children, themed resorts (like Art of Animation) enhance the magic and keep kids excited even between park days.
Check if your kids love pools and water play — some resorts have exceptional waterpark-style pool complexes.

With three children ages 8, 7, and 5, you’ll likely appreciate a mix of convenience, space, and kid-friendly amenities. Art of Animation Family Suites, Port Orleans Riverside, and Cabins at Fort Wilderness are especially strong choices on Disney property. Off-site, Floridays and Lake Buena Vista Resort Village & Spa are among the best for space and value.

Whichever you choose, your family’s first Disney trip will be unforgettable — enjoy the planning and the magic ahead!