Pop Century is one of my top picks for budget-friendly stays at Walt Disney World. While it is a value resort, Pop Century offers a fantastic blend of price, theming, and convenience. In fact, it’s the most affordable Disney resort with Skyliner access, which gives it a major edge over the All Stars and even some moderate hotels. The rooms are modern, the layout is compact, and getting to EPCOT or Hollywood Studios couldn’t be easier. That said, it’s a popular option for families, so you can expect a lively atmosphere and a bit of hustle and bustle, especially near the pools and dining area.
Where Is Pop Century
Pop Century is located in the ESPN Wide World of Sports area of Walt Disney World. It’s just across Hourglass Lake from Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. You’ll find it near Osceola Parkway, with quick access to the Skyliner and other transportation options.
How Big Is Pop Century
Pop Century has 2,880 rooms, spread out across 10 buildings that celebrate pop culture from the 1950s to the 1990s. The buildings are grouped into themed decades. Each decade is decked out with massive, oversized icons from its era, like yo-yos, bowling pins, and Pac-Man.
How Much Is Pop Century
Pop Century prices fluctuate depending on the time of year, but they generally range from $160 to $280 per night for a standard room. The resort is squarely in Disney’s value category, so it’s budget-friendly without sacrificing that Disney charm.
Is Pop Century a Value Resort
Yes, Pop Century is considered a value resort, just like the All-Star Resorts and Art of Animation. That means you’ll get basic amenities, exterior hallways, and food court dining, but at a much lower price than moderate or deluxe resorts. However, Pop Century and Art of Animation are a step up from the All-Star Resorts, thanks to their Skyliner access.
Pop Century Rooms
The rooms at Pop Century were renovated in recent years, and they now have a sleek, modern look. Standard rooms sleep up to four people with one queen bed and one pull-down Murphy bed that doubles as a table during the day. There’s a mini fridge, a coffee maker, and plenty of USB charging ports.
Where Are Pop Century Preferred Rooms
Preferred rooms are located in the 50s, 60s, and 70s buildings closest to the lobby, food court, and Skyliner station. Booking a preferred room can save you a lot of walking at the end of a long park day, especially if you’re carrying a sleepy kid or two.
Are There Elevators at Pop Century
Yes, every building at Pop Century has elevators, though only three stories tall. If you’re bringing a stroller, wheelchair, or scooter, access won’t be a problem. Keep in mind that the Murphy beds do make the rooms a little tight when trying to park a scooter. Additionally, luggage service is available at the front to assist you in getting your luggage to the room.
For Future Reference: Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort is the only Disney hotel that does not have elevators.
Are There Microwaves at Pop Century
There are no microwaves in the rooms, but you’ll find them in the food court for guest use. While not as convenient as having a microwave in your room, it is a decent compromise for reheating pizza or making popcorn.
Can Pop Century Sleep 5
Pop Century rooms officially sleep up to 4 people (plus a child under 3 in a crib). If you’re looking for space for five or more, check out Art of Animation family suites across the lake.
Pop Century Pools
There are three pools at Pop Century:
- Hippy Dippy Pool (main pool): Located in the 60s section with flower-shaped water jets.
- Bowling Pin Pool: In the 50s section.
- Computer Pool: In the 90s section.
The pools are fun but fairly basic compared to moderate and deluxe resorts. Like other hotels, the main pool is the most crowded. However, the computer pool in the 90s section is pretty far away from the action and is usually pretty empty.
Are Pop Century Pools Heated
Yes, all Pop Century pools are heated year-round, so they stay comfortable even in the cooler months. Keep in mind that Disney often does maintenance on pools in the winter, so not all of the pools may be open. Also, the pools do close in very cold weather.
Pop Century Dining
Everything POP Shopping & Dining is the main dining option at Pop Century. It is a large food court with options like burgers, pizza, pasta, and waffles shaped like Mickey. There’s also a Grab & Go section and Petals Pool Bar just outside the Hippy Dippy Pool.
Being a value resort, Pop Century does not have a lounge or table service restaurant.
Beyond Tip: If you’re staying more than a few days, invest in the refillable mug—it’s good for unlimited coffee, tea, and soda at any Disney resort for the length of your stay.
Is Pop Century a Good Resort
Absolutely. Pop Century is a fantastic choice for travelers who want a budget-friendly, well-themed resort with access to the Skyliner. It’s clean, fun, and efficient, plus you can’t beat the Skyliner access.
Pop Century is one of my favorite resorts on property, and it’s also the one I stayed at on my first visit. The refurbishment also made several major and minor improvements, like adding coffee makers to the rooms and removing the outdated carpet.
Pop Century Transportation
| Pop Century to Magic Kingdom | Bus |
| Pop Century to Epcot | Skyliner |
| Pop Century to Hollywood Studios | Skyliner |
| Pop Century to Animal Kingdom | Bus |
| Pop Century to Disney Springs | Bus |
| Pop Century to Blizzard Beach | Bus |
| Pop Century to Typhoon Lagoon | Bus |
Are Pop Century and Art of Animation Connected?
Yes, Pop Century and Art of Animation are connected by a walking bridge over Hourglass Lake. It’s a short and scenic stroll, and it gives you access to both food courts and Skyliner stations if you’re looking to mix things up.
Being so close makes it an easy and affordable alternative if you have family or friends staying over at Art of Animation. While Art of Animation does have standard rooms in the Little Mermaid section, they are often more expensive than comparable rooms at Pop Century.
Can You Walk From Pop Century to EPCOT or Hollywood Studios
No, the Skyliner is your best option. Walking would require traversing several roadways, and there are no sidewalks. The Skyliner is ADA accessible, so you can bring your wheelchair or ECV.
Remember, when the Skyliner is running, buses usually don’t go between Pop Century and Hollywood Studios or EPCOT. That means if you are afraid of heights or have other concerns about the gondola system, it may be best to stay at another resort, like All-Star or Coronado Springs. Alternatively, EPCOT and Hollywood Studios are a short drive or Uber ride away, and you do get free parking at the theme parks when staying at Pop Century.
What Section of Pop Century Is Closest to the Skyliner?
The 60s section is closest to the Skyliner station, which sits on the bridge between Pop Century and Art of Animation. If you want quick access to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios, try requesting a room in that area.
Keep in mind that many of the rooms in the 60s section are preferred rooms, which may make it difficult to fulfill that request. The next closes rooms are in building 3 (50s) or building 6 (70s).
Pop Century Comparisons
- Pop Century vs. All Star Resorts: Slightly more expensive, but has the Skyliner. Better for EPCOT and Hollywood Studios days.
- Pop Century vs. Art of Animation: Art has more family suites and more elaborate theming, but Pop is quieter and usually cheaper.
- Pop Century vs. Moderate Resorts: Pop doesn’t have table service restaurants or fitness centers, but it wins on price and Skyliner access.
Pop Century Map
We’re working on adding a detailed map to this page soon. In the meantime, you can find an interactive version on Disney’s website or My Disney Experience app.
Pop Century FAQ
Can You DoorDash at Pop Century?
Yes, delivery drivers can drop off orders at the main lobby. You’ll meet them near Bell Services. Note that food delivery isn’t allowed to your room door.
Disney can help facilitate other orders, like packages or groceries. However, there is a nominal fee for them to accept your delivery.
Can I Visit Pop Century if I’m not Staying There?
Absolutely. You’re welcome to explore the resort, shop at the gift store, dine at the food court, or take a Skyliner ride from the bridge. Parking at the hotel usually isn’t a big deal, but you will be asked to scan your MagicBand or present a photo ID. Just tell the security guard why you are stopping by and you shouldn’t have a problem. Alternatively, take a bus or Skyliner straight from the parks.
Can I Park at Pop Century Resort?
Guests can park at Pop Century, and Disney no longer charges a parking fee for hotel guests. However, parking for visitors is at their sole discretion.
What Time Is Pop Century Check Out?
Standard check-out time is 11:00 AM. You can request a late check-out, but it’s subject to availability.
When Was Pop Century Built/ When Did Pop Century Open?
Construction on Pop Century started in the early 2000s. The resort officially opened on December 14, 2003, with themes covering five decades of pop culture.
Will Pop Century Hold Luggage or Groceries?
Yes, Bell Services can store your bags and groceries before check-in or after check-out. If you order items from Amazon or grocery services, they’ll hold them for you at the front desk.
Bell services will even deliver your luggage to your room when it becomes available. This is a free service, but you should tip. On the other hand, receiving grocery deliveries does come with a nominal fee unless you are there to personally meet the driver at the front entrance.
