Hey guys! Planning a trip to Disney World? Awesome! Let's talk about a super cool and budget-friendly place to stay: Disney's All-Star Music Resort. This place is all about fun, music, and, of course, that Disney magic we all love. I'm going to give you the lowdown on everything you need to know to make your stay absolutely amazing.

Overview of All-Star Music Resort

Location and Theme: First off, the All-Star Music Resort is located in the Animal Kingdom area of Walt Disney World. It's one of the three All-Star Resorts, alongside All-Star Movies and All-Star Sports. As you might guess, the theme here is music! Each section of the resort is themed after a different genre: Calypso, Jazz Inn, Rock Inn, Country Fair, and Broadway Hotel. You'll see larger-than-life instruments and musical notes everywhere, making it a super fun and visually appealing place, especially for families with kids.

Value Resort Perks: Being a value resort, All-Star Music is one of the most affordable options on Disney property. But don't let the price fool you! You still get all the great perks of staying at a Disney resort, like complimentary transportation to the parks, early theme park entry, and the ability to book dining reservations 60 days in advance. Plus, you're immersed in the Disney bubble from the moment you arrive!

Rooms: The rooms at All-Star Music are pretty standard, but they're clean, comfortable, and recently refurbished. Most rooms have two double beds (or one king bed in some rooms), a mini-fridge, a TV, and a private bathroom. They're perfect for families who plan to spend most of their time in the parks and just need a comfortable place to crash at night. More recently, All-Star Music has added family suites that provide more space and convenience. These suites can accommodate up to six guests and include a separate bedroom, a living area with a pull-out sofa, a kitchenette, and two bathrooms.

Accommodation Options

Standard Rooms: Standard rooms are the most common and budget-friendly option. These rooms typically feature two double beds or one king-size bed, a small table with chairs, a dresser, and a television. The rooms are decorated with musical motifs that match the resort's overall theme, creating a fun and immersive atmosphere. While these rooms are compact, they are well-maintained and offer all the essential amenities needed for a comfortable stay. The recent refurbishment has also added modern touches, such as USB charging ports and updated décor, enhancing the overall guest experience.

Family Suites: For larger families or those who prefer more space, the family suites at All-Star Music are an excellent choice. These suites can accommodate up to six guests and include a separate bedroom with a queen-size bed, a living area with a double-size sleeper sofa and a twin-size sleeper chair, a kitchenette, and two bathrooms. The kitchenette is equipped with a microwave, a mini-refrigerator, and a coffee maker, making it easy to prepare snacks and simple meals. Having two bathrooms is a huge plus for families, as it eliminates the morning rush and provides added convenience. The additional space in the family suites allows everyone to spread out and relax, making the stay more enjoyable, especially for longer vacations.

Room Locations: When booking your room, you can request a specific location within the resort. Some guests prefer to be close to the main building and amenities, while others prefer a quieter location away from the hustle and bustle. Buildings near the Melody Hall (the main building) offer easy access to the food court, shops, and bus stops. If you prefer a quieter location, consider requesting a room in the Broadway Hotel or Country Fair sections, which tend to be more secluded. Keep in mind that room requests are not guaranteed but Disney will do its best to accommodate your preferences.

Dining at All-Star Music

Intermission Food Court: The main dining spot at All-Star Music is the Intermission Food Court. It's a casual, quick-service restaurant that offers a variety of options to please everyone in your group. You'll find classic American fare like burgers, pizza, pasta, and salads, as well as some tasty desserts. It’s open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, making it super convenient for grabbing a bite any time of day. The food court also offers mobile ordering through the My Disney Experience app, allowing you to skip the lines and pick up your meal when it's ready.

Singing Spirits Pool Bar: If you're looking for a relaxing spot to grab a drink, head over to the Singing Spirits Pool Bar. Located by the Calypso Pool, this bar offers a selection of cocktails, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages. It's the perfect place to unwind after a long day at the parks. The pool bar also serves a limited menu of snacks and light meals, so you can enjoy a bite to eat while you sip on your favorite drink. The atmosphere is laid-back and fun, with music playing and plenty of sunshine.

Pools and Recreation

Calypso Pool: The main pool at All-Star Music is the Calypso Pool, shaped like a giant guitar. It's the larger of the two pools and features the Three Caballeros (Donald Duck, José Carioca, and Panchito Pistoles) in the center. This pool is usually the livelier of the two, with music playing and plenty of families enjoying the water. Lifeguards are on duty during pool hours, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Piano Pool: For a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere, check out the Piano Pool. Shaped like a grand piano, this pool is located in the Broadway Hotel section of the resort. It's a great option for guests who prefer a more peaceful swimming experience. The Piano Pool is typically less crowded than the Calypso Pool, making it ideal for those who want to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle.

Other Activities: Besides the pools, All-Star Music offers a variety of other recreational activities. There's a playground for the little ones, an arcade for gamers, and a jogging trail for those who want to stay active. The resort also hosts movie nights under the stars, where you can watch classic Disney films with your family. These activities provide plenty of opportunities for fun and entertainment outside of the theme parks.

Transportation

Bus Service: The primary mode of transportation at All-Star Music is the bus service. Buses run regularly to all four theme parks (Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom), as well as the water parks (Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon) and Disney Springs. While the bus service is generally reliable, it can sometimes be crowded, especially during peak hours. It's a good idea to allow extra time for transportation, especially if you have dining reservations or FastPass+ selections.

Using the My Disney Experience App: The My Disney Experience app is your best friend when it comes to navigating the transportation system. The app provides real-time bus arrival information, so you can see when the next bus is expected to arrive at your stop. This feature can save you a lot of time and frustration, as you won't have to wait aimlessly at the bus stop. The app also provides directions and estimated travel times, helping you plan your day more efficiently.

Tips for Your Stay

Plan Ahead: To make the most of your stay at All-Star Music, it's essential to plan ahead. Book your dining reservations and FastPass+ selections as early as possible. This will help you avoid long lines and ensure that you get to experience all the attractions and restaurants you want to visit. Also, consider purchasing a Disney Dining Plan if it makes sense for your family's eating habits.

Pack Smart: When packing for your trip, be sure to bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a hat. You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. Sunscreen and a hat will protect you from the Florida sun. Also, consider bringing a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day. Don't forget to pack your swimsuit for the pools and any special outfits you want to wear to the parks.

Take Advantage of Resort Amenities: Don't forget to take advantage of the resort's amenities. Spend some time at the pools, play in the arcade, and enjoy the movie nights under the stars. These activities can be a great way to relax and unwind after a long day at the parks. Also, be sure to check out the resort's gift shop for souvenirs and essentials.

Stay Connected: Take advantage of the complimentary Wi-Fi at the resort to stay connected. You can use the Wi-Fi to check your email, browse the web, and share your vacation photos on social media. The Wi-Fi is also essential for using the My Disney Experience app, which provides real-time information about wait times, park hours, and transportation.

Pros and Cons of Staying at All-Star Music

Pros:

• Affordable: One of the biggest advantages of staying at All-Star Music is its affordability. It's one of the most budget-friendly options on Disney property, making it a great choice for families on a budget.
• Theming: The resort's musical theme is fun and engaging, especially for kids. The larger-than-life instruments and colorful décor create a festive atmosphere that adds to the Disney magic.
• Perks: You still get all the great perks of staying at a Disney resort, like complimentary transportation, early theme park entry, and the ability to book dining reservations in advance.

Cons:

• Smaller Rooms: The rooms at All-Star Music are smaller compared to those at moderate and deluxe resorts. This can be a drawback for larger families or those who prefer more space.
• Bus Transportation: The bus service can sometimes be crowded and unreliable, especially during peak hours. You may have to wait a while for a bus, and it can be standing-room only.
• Limited Dining Options: The dining options at All-Star Music are limited compared to those at other Disney resorts. The Intermission Food Court is the only main dining spot, and it can get crowded during peak hours.

Is All-Star Music Right for You?

So, is All-Star Music the right choice for your Disney vacation? If you're on a budget and looking for a fun, family-friendly resort with basic amenities, then the answer is probably yes! It's a great option for families who plan to spend most of their time in the parks and just need a comfortable and affordable place to stay. However, if you prefer more spacious accommodations, more dining options, and more luxurious amenities, you might want to consider staying at a moderate or deluxe resort.

Final Thoughts

Overall, Disney's All-Star Music Resort is a fantastic option for budget-conscious travelers who want to experience the magic of Disney without breaking the bank. With its fun theme, comfortable accommodations, and convenient location, it's a great place to call home during your Walt Disney World vacation. Just remember to plan ahead, pack smart, and take advantage of all the resort has to offer. Have a magical trip, guys!