There is a lot of debate between ON property and OFF Property. See our thoughts Here (Coming Soon)

When traveling with kids of any age- we recommend staying on property. This includes all of the official Disney World Resort Hotels in the Deluxe, Moderate, and Value categories, and DVC rentals. Travel time (for most kids) is a more tolerable so Resort Hotels requiring a bus trip or Skyliner are less likely to trigger meltdowns and misery.

Overall, my top recommendation for big kids is Beach Club or Boardwalk to be close to Epcot and HS.

Emily Recommends: Wilderness Lodge a boat ride away from MK. Gorgeous theming.

Allie Recommends: Saratoga Springs

Other MwM Favorites from guest contributors:

Old Key West

Riviera Resort

Art of Animation

MwM Savers Tip: Swan and Dolphin

The WDW Swan, Dolphin, and Swan Reserve are technically off-property but you would hardly notice with bigger kids. The properties are right next to Boardwalk and Yacht/Beach meaning you can enjoy the close proximity and boat transport to Epcot and HS! The hotels feel similar to the Deluxe resorts, though there is much less/no Disney theming. For that reason, I would recommend for older kids where you may not be as concerned about the total bubble feel.

Magic Index: 7.5/10

• These rooms can be booked with Credit Card Points! I have been booking shorter trips at these hotels for the past few. years on points when I just want a quick trip that feels Deluxe without the price tag.

• Room service and great restaurants on site.

• Decent pool situation.

• Swan Reserve feels very luxe!

• You have most of the same perks as a Deluxe hotel like early entry, early bookings, etc.

• Kids Club available for kids 5-12 if you want to sneak in an adults only night or a spa trip!

Misery Index: 3/10

• Does feel like a regular hotel so definitely not as magic/special as the themed hotels and often there are conferences/youth activities taking up the hotel

• You cannot charge things on your magic band (not a huge deal but annoying).

• Bus drops off at Transportation Center at MK (though technically there is nothing in the rules preventing you from using the Boardwalk or Yacht Club bus stops)

• There are often conferences held here and the other guests can make it feel very non-Disney at times.