Coronado Springs is one of the more unique moderate resorts at Walt Disney World. While it doesn’t get the same fanfare as the Port Orleans hotels or Caribbean Beach, it’s quietly become a top contender for travelers who want a blend of affordability and luxury.
The recent addition of the Gran Destino Tower added a huge upgrade with upscale rooms, sleek architecture, and new dining options. Coronado has a bit of a split personality as it is part business hotel and part vacation destination, but if you’re looking for polished amenities at a moderate price point, it might be the perfect fit.
Where Is Coronado Springs Resort
Coronado Springs sits in the Animal Kingdom resort area, not far from Blizzard Beach water park and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. It’s centrally located on the western side of Walt Disney World property and has convenient access to most parks by bus.
How Big Is Coronado Springs Resort
Coronado Springs is one of the largest Disney resorts,at roughly 150 acres with over 2,300 guest rooms spread across:
- Gran Destino Tower
- Casitas
- Ranchos
- Cabanas
The resort surrounds Lago Dorado, a picturesque lake with walking paths, bridges, and beachfront views. Because of the resort’s large scale, Disney does offer an internal bus loop to help you get around.
What Is Coronado Springs’ Theme
Coronado Springs Resort blends Spanish, Mexican, and Southwestern American design elements. Expect adobe-style buildings, desert-inspired landscaping, and elegant Moorish architecture in Gran Destino Tower.
The vibe walks a fine line between upscale and relaxed. It feels more grown-up than other moderate resorts, which is why it’s often used for business conferences. There is a conference center on-site, and you will likely encounter a lot more business travelers compared to the other Disney resorts.
Where Do You Check in at Coronado Springs
Guests checking into Gran Destino Tower will head to the main tower lobby, which feels more like a deluxe hotel than a traditional Disney resort.
If you’re staying in the Casitas, Ranchos, or Cabanas, you’ll still use the Gran Destino front desk and then head to your section via walkway, internal shuttle, or car. That means you no longer check in at the old El Centro lobby area.
How Much Is Coronado Springs
Prices at Coronado Springs Resort typically range from:
- $250–$350 for standard rooms
- $300–$500 for Gran Destino Tower rooms
It’s more affordable than deluxe resorts while offering comparable amenities, especially if you land one of the tower rooms. With that in mind, it does lack alternative transportation options as the only way to get to the theme parks is by bus.
Coronado Springs Rooms
Coronado Springs offers two main room types:
- Standard rooms in Casitas, Ranchos, and Cabanas
- Gran Destino Tower rooms, which are more modern and upscale
All rooms include:
- Two queen beds or one king
- Mini fridge and coffee maker
- Flat-screen TV with streaming
- USB charging ports
- Work desk
Coronado Springs Standard Rooms
Standard rooms at Coronado Springs are found in the outer sections of the resort—Casitas, Ranchos, and Cabanas. They offer fun Southwestern styling, spacious layouts, and proximity to quiet pools. You’ll likely have a longer walk to dining or the lobby, but the scenery along the lake helps balance it out.
Coronado Springs Tower Rooms
Gran Destino Tower rooms are sleek, modern, and feel like something out of a deluxe resort:
- Stylish lighting and updated finishes
- Smart TVs and rainfall showers
- Interior corridors and elevators
- Easy access to restaurants and the main lobby
These are ideal for adults or couples who want a quieter stay with deluxe-level perks. Besides the deluxe feel, Gran Destino tower makes it easy to access the bus system, and you won’t have to worry about navigating the internal loop just to make it back to the front of the resort.
Coronado Springs Pool
The main pool area, called The Dig Site, is themed after a lost Mayan ruin:
- Giant pyramid waterfall
- 123-foot waterslide
- Hot tub
- Kiddie pool and playground
- Poolside bar (Siestas)
There are also three quiet pools scattered through the resort for a more laid-back swim. Remember, all pools at Coronado Springs are heated, so you can enjoy them year-round.
What Restaurants Are at Coronado Springs
Coronado has more dining variety than any other moderate resort. Most of the options are centered around South American cuisine, but everyone is sure to find something they enjoy.
El Mercado de Coronado
Quick-service meals with Latin American inspiration. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood
Table-service restaurant on the top floor of Gran Destino Tower with stunning views. Known for its small plates and wine list.
Three Bridges Bar & Grill
Casual dining located on the lake with open-air seating and excellent entrees and drinks.
Maya Grill
Table-service restaurant offering Mexican-inspired fare like enchiladas, carne asada, and queso fundido. It’s open most evenings for dinner and brings a warm, rustic atmosphere.
Rix Sports Bar & Grill
Full-service restaurant and sports bar with TVs galore. Rix serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and offers hearty dishes like burgers, wings, and entrees that feel more like pub food with a Disney twist.
Dahlia Lounge
Stylish rooftop lounge with panoramic views, cocktails, and tapas.
Barcelona Lounge
Coffee in the morning, cocktails at night—located in the Gran Destino lobby.
Siestas Cantina
Poolside drinks and light snacks at The Dig Site.
Transportation at Coronado Springs
Coronado Springs does not have Skyliner or monorail access. Transportation is by bus only.
| Coronado Springs Resort to Magic Kingdom | Bus |
| Coronado Springs Resort to Epcot | Bus |
| Coronado Springs Resort to Hollywood Studios | Bus |
| Coronado Springs Resort to Animal Kingdom | Bus |
| Coronado Springs Resort to Disney Springs | Bus |
| Coronado Springs Resort to Blizzard Beach | Bus |
| Coronado Springs Resort to Typhoon Lagoon | Bus |
Comparisons
Coronado Springs Vs. Animal Kingdom Lodge
Animal Kingdom Lodge offers deluxe amenities and savannah views, but costs more. Coronado is cheaper and has more dining variety. While Coronado Springs is in the Animal Kingdom resort area, it is more centrally located than the secluded Animal Kingdom Lodge.
Coronado Springs Vs. Port Orleans
Port Orleans feels more intimate, with boat access to Disney Springs. Coronado has better restaurants and tower rooms. Port Orleans French Quarter is actually the smallest moderate resort and does not have an internal bus loop.
Coronado Springs Vs. Caribbean Beach
Caribbean Beach wins with Skyliner access. Coronado wins with better pools, dining, and overall resort polish. If you plan to visit the parks, the Skyliner will make access much easier, especially when park hopping. However, Gran Destino Tower at Coronado Springs is a better choice if you plan to spend a lot of time around the resort.
Coronado Springs Vs. Pop Century
Pop Century is simpler and more budget-friendly, but Coronado offers more comfort and dining variety. On the other hand, Pop Century has Skyliner access. Pop Century makes more sense for most families thanks to its ease of access on the Skyliner.
Coronado Springs Vs. Art of Animation
Art of Animation has suites and big character theming. Coronado has a more adult vibe, modern rooms, and a more relaxed atmosphere. Both are great options, but kids will probably prefer the styling of Art of Animation, while adults may prefer the laid-back atmosphere of Coronado Springs. Plus, the Skyliner is a big selling point for Art of Animation.
Coronado Springs Map
A map is coming soon! Until then, explore the layout on Disney’s interactive resort map via their website or app.
FAQs
Is Coronado Springs a Disney Resort?
Yes, Coronado Springs is officially owned and operated by Disney, even though it often gets mistaken for a third-party hotel due to its convention center and upscale feel. Guests staying here still get full Disney resort benefits, including early park entry, free parking, and resort transportation.
