So, you’ve finally decided to visit Walt Disney World. Yay! Have you decided to stay on property and are trying to figure out how to stay on property while staying on a Disney Budget? Then we think Pop Century Resort at Walt Disney World might just be the answer you’ve been looking for. From Disney-themed grounds to newly renovated rooms and access to the Disney Skyliner, here’s everything to know about the Pop Century Resort at Walt Disney World.
Contents
- 1 Pop Century Resort at Walt Disney World
- 2 Pop Century Resort Theme and Buildings
- 3 Pop Century Resort Disney World Rooms
- 4 Pop Century Resort Dining Options
- 5 Pop Century Pools
- 6 Pop Century Running Trails
- 7 Pop Century Resort Activities and Recreation
- 8 Pop Century and Art of Animation
- 9 Pop Century Resort Transportation
- 10 Pop Century Resort Map
- 11 Pop Century Resort Cost
- 12 The Best Value Resort at Walt Disney World
- 13 Pop Century Resort Review
Pop Century Resort at Walt Disney World
As we mentioned above, the Disney World Pop Resort is in the Value Resort Category. But something about it just feels a little different than the others. Yes, it’s still crowded and loud at times. But we are big fans and we don’t see that stopping any time soon. Pop Century is located on Disney’s Skyliner route. Making it really convenient to get around. This is especially true if you want to explore other resorts. Being able to hop on the Skyliner and have dinner at Sebastian’s Bistro is super convenient. And it’s proximity to Disney’s Riviera Resort means you can grab a coffee at Le Petit Cafe too. This makes this resort feel really elevated in some way.
Pop Century was renovated in 2018. The new rooms feel larger, cleaner, and brighter. We love the simple Disney decor they’ve kept, and we love that every time we come back, the rooms still feel pretty new.
Pop Century Resort Theme and Buildings
A true walk down memory lane, this nostalgic Disney Resort is a favorite of many. Sometimes considered the Disney World pop culture resort, Pop Century is decorated with bright, fun colors. We think kids all of ages will love the larger-than-life theming. Each building has a theme based on a specific decade. Like the 60s, 70s, 80s, and 90s. These buildings and the whole theme of the resort were designed with Pop Culture (and of course Disney) elements from each decade. It’s a mixture of nostalgia, cute and cheesy. We love it. The resort consists of several areas covered in colorful and fun decor, showcasing iconic moments in history from each decade. What’s more, is that this resort has a simple and family-friendly layout. The Classic Hall Lobby and Food Court are central to the entire resort and can be easily accessed by all area paths. Be sure to check out the Pop Century Resort Map below.
50’s Area at Disney World Pop Century Resort
Starting on one side of the resort is the 50’s area. The 50’s area consists of Lady and the Tramp and Bowling Pins. This area also includes a transistor radio, 45 RPM records, and the Bowling Pin Pool.
60’s Area at Disney World Pop Century Resort
The 60’s area at the Pop Century Resort flanks the main pathway from the Classic Hall Lobby and Food Court and is closest to the Disney Skyliner station. Home to the Hippy Dippy Pool, this section includes peace signs, flowers, The Jungle Book characters Baloo and Mowgli, Playdough and one of our favorite photo ops, Surfer Goofy.
70’s Area at Disney World Pop Century Resort
Foosball, 8-track tape staircases, disco balls, the Mickey Phone, Big Wheel, and two twister play areas are part of the 70’s section of Pop Century Resort. This area has great photo ops throughout and is to the left of the Classic Hall and Food Court when exiting from the back.
80’s Area at Disney World Pop Century Resort
Welcome to the 1980s! In the 80’s section of Pop Century Resort, you can find the Roger Rabbit building, Rubik’s Cube, Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head, and the Computer Pool.
90’s Area at Disney World Pop Century Resort
The ’90s area of Pop Century includes a larger-than-life cell phone staircase, a giant laptop, and rollerblades. You can also find the Hip Hop Dance building here, and the 90’s section shares the Computer Pool with the ’80s section.
Pop Century Resort Disney World Rooms
Offering Standard Sooms, and Preferred Rooms, Pop Century Resort Disney World Rooms are perfect for families of 4 or fewer people. Newly renovated, the resort rooms at Pop Century Resort include the fold-down sleeper bed, and separated bathroom and vanity areas, making it easy to get ready with multiple family members sharing a room. We also love the built-in toiletries, multiple USB ports, and nice coffee and fridge setup. Having a mini fridge is always helpful, and each room also has a wall safe. The beds are raised with plenty of underneath storage and overall, it’s a very clean, streamlined look. The Pop Century rooms have only one permanent bed fixture, with the other bed able to be pulled down out of the wall. When it’s not a wall bed, it’s a wall with a table.
We also really love that the new rooms at Pop Century have so many outlets and USB ports now that we never find ourselves without somewhere to charge our phones, laptops, or cameras. This makes charging all the things at the end of the day a breeze!
Does Pop Century Resort have Family Suites?
No, the only Disney Resorts that have Family Suites are the All Stars Music Resort, and the Art of Animation Resort, in three themes; Lion King, Cars, and Finding Nemo.
Pop Century Room Decor
A lovely upgrade from the wallpaper Disney borders of the old days. The new decor is simple but cute, focused on print pieces, rather than actual wallpaper. And made as part of the wall bed, which is lit from within so that each bed gets its own lighting.
Pop Century Bathrooms
The bathrooms at Pop Century finally got the upgrade with the toilet and bath behind a closed door. We love having access to the vanity without having to compete for bathroom time. However, the vanity is a bit small at times. And with no second mirror in the room, this can be a challenge. While we applaud Disney’s view on mirrors, as three girls traveling together, we had to be very strategic about getting ready in the morning. We also are huge fans of the new built-in toiletries that are popping up in the resorts so we were happy to see these were part of the new rooms at Pop Century!
Pop Century Resort Dining Options
Pop Century Resort offers a main food court area and a pool bar. all centrally located in the building areas, it’s easy to get to and from the commissary for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. And of course, super convenient for when you need to refill your Disney Refillable Mug before heading to the pool or Movies Under the Stars.
Everything POP Shopping and Dining
Located at the center of the resort in the Classic Hall the Everything Pop and Shop Dining Restaurant offers a variety of foods and mobile order options too. With multiple drink stations, the food court seemed larger and a lot less crowded than the All-Star Resorts. Where it felt like we were always waiting to get our drinks. Always. That said, Pop Century’s food court is separated out into a variety of sections, to help disperse crowds and noise. As one of the best Disney world resort quick service restaurants, you can find a variety of foods here.
Everything Pop has a variety of grab-and-go items, diverse menu options, and hot meals offered throughout the day. Sometimes finding breakfast at Walt Disney World can be a bit difficult. But the food court at Pop Century has a fairly standard menu that most people should be able to find something to enjoy. And we love being able to mobile order while we get ready for the Parks in the morning. And stop in the food court with our breakfast waiting for us.
One benefit of being in walking distance to Art of Animation is that you can also take advantage of their food court, Landscape of Flavors. The landscape of Flavors tends to have a few more adventurous items on its menu. And is a great way to add a little variety if you’re eating a lot of your meals at your resort.
Petals Pool Bar
The bar at Pop Century Resort has a variety of drinks, both alcoholic and nonalcoholic, including smoothies. And you can also grab sandwiches, salads, and to-go foods here too. Located at the Hippy Dippy Pool in the 60’s Area of the resort, you can grab anything here throughout the day, as you tackle Trivia, Games, and Pool Activities during your stay. Check out the Petals Pool Bar Menu.
Pop Century Pools
Pop Century Resort is set up similarly to the other Disney Value resorts, with an extra smaller pool than the All Stars Resorts have. There are three pools at Pop Century Resort. The main pool, the Hippy Dippy Pool, is a 60s-themed pool that can be found right behind the lobby and food court area, Classic Hall. The 1950’s Bowling Pool and the 1990’s Computer Pool are also available in their respective decade-themed areas. The Hippy Dippy Pool is where you’ll find all the action, with games and activities throughout the day. The two smaller pools are perfect for those looking for a pool close to their room or for a more quiet and less hectic atmosphere.
Laundry Facilities
Located at each pool, you can find 24-hour self-service laundry rooms, available near the Bowling Pool, Computer Pool, and Hippy Dippy Pool. These laundry facilities are able to be opened with your room key and include washers, dryers, and a vending machine of laundry detergents, dryer sheets, and fabric softener for purchase. While you don’t have to stand and wait for your laundry to be done, since machines lock and are on timers, it’s good to plan to make sure you’ll be there when your items are close to finished.
Pop Century Running Trails
Pop Century also has a New Balance running trail. This runs throughout the resort which follows parts of Hourglass Lake. And then connects to the running trail within Art of Animation which you can access right across the bridge. There are fun pop culture facts located all along this trail to help keep you entertained while you run or walk. Check out all the Walking Paths at Disney World, to help get your steps in.
Pop Century Resort Activities and Recreation
Like all Disney Resorts, Pop Century Resort has a variety of activities, and recreation offered daily at the resort. From self-led activities to group play at the pools, here is everything you can find to do for fun at Pop Century Resort.
Movies Under the Stars
Hosted nightly at the resort you can gather a blanket and head to the pool area for the Movies Under the Stars. The movie schedule is found in the Pop Century Resort Recreation sheet you receive when you arrive, with all the activities happening at the resort during your stay. You can pick this up at the front desk, or check it out near Classic Hall.
Surrey Bike Rental
Art of Animation offers Surrey Bike Rentals, which is such a fun activity since this resort has a waterfront, which makes for a beautiful bike ride. And since the bikes are usually loaned out for about 25 minutes, you have time to explore both Pop Century Resort and AOA.
Playground
Pop Century Resort has a children’s playground, located in the 70’s Area of the resort, with slides, swings, and climbing structures. A great out-of-the-way place to get some play time, not all Disney resorts have playgrounds, so this is definitely a perk!
Campfires and S’mores
Offered nightly, you can find a campfire all set up for s’moresPop Century Resort. While you do have to purchase a s’mores kit or bring your own, this is a wonderful way to wind down a busy Disney Vacation day.
Pools and Games
While Pop Century offers three pools, the main activities and games happen at the 60’s Area Pool, the Hippy Dippy Pool. Offered throughout the day by Cast Members you can join in on music games, trivia, scavenger hunts, and more.
Fast Foward Arcade
The fast-forward Arcade is located in the main building and offers the chance to play classic games, including racing games, joystick games, and more. Be sure to check out the details during your stay if the kids are looking for some easy fun. To play games, you have to purchase a Game Card and add game points using a credit card or cash at a kiosk inside the arcade. Game Cards are rechargeable and can be used at other Walt Disney World Resort arcades throughout your stay. Be sure to check Arcade hours, as they differ at each resort.
Pop Century and Art of Animation
Pop Century is actually located right across from Art of Animation. Which is pretty cool because you can walk across Hourglass Lake, and there you are. We love resort hopping, so for us, even just seeing another resort is exciting. And since it’s so close, guests at Pop Century can easily access Art of Animation’s Landscape of Flavors food court, gift shops, trails, and browse around the resort. Check out our Art of Animation Review.
Guests of Pop Century unfortunately don’t have access to the pools at Art of Animation. But you can pretty much access everything else like dining and shopping.
Pop Century Resort Transportation
Primarily offering complimentary Disney bus transportation to and from the parks, and Disney Springs, Pop Century Resort also has access to the Disney Skyliner Gondola system. You can grab the gondola at the gondola station on the bridge over Hourglass Lake. This gondola will bring you to Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney’s Riviera Resort, EPCOT, and Hollywood Studios. The addition of the Skyliner at Pop Century has really increased its popularity. And as a result, it’s usually the most expensive of the classic Value Resorts. And usually sells out the fastest. The Skyliner does make it worth it though! Especially if you happen to be planning to spend a lot of time at either Epcot or Hollywood Studios during your trip.
Pop Century Resort Map
Pop Century Resort Cost
If you’re traveling to Disney World on a budget, the Pop Century Resort Disney World Hotel is a great option. With budget-friendly prices throughout the year, Pop Century typically ranges between $170- 370 per night depending on season, crowds, and room availability. Frankly, it’s the Disney Resort we stay at most, and love the convenience of the Skyliner and next-door access to Art of Animation. If you’re able to pay a little more than the lower-end Value Resorts, then you won’t be disappointed with the cost of Pop Century.
The Best Value Resort at Walt Disney World
Value Resorts at Walt Disney World are the least expensive resorts on Walt Disney World property. But dare we say, none as attractive as Pop Century Resort. Art of Animation is a good contender for best Value Resort, however since it’s technically a “Value-Plus” resort, it tends to be a bit more expensive. Art of Animation resort also consists of only a few benefits like family suites and The Little Mermaid rooms. While we personally liked the Lion King Family Suites at Art of Animation, the prices are higher for the perk of a suite.
The All-Stars Resorts at Walt Disney World include All-Star Music, All-Star Sports, and All-Star Movies. And these are the cheapest resorts at Disney World. These are all right next to each other and all offer the same amenities. They’re all also generally very loud and chaotic due to the high volume of school groups, athletic clubs, competition teams, and more that flock to the cheapest resorts on Disney property. Don’t get us wrong, any stay at Walt Disney World is a blessing. And we’ve stayed at all of the All-Stars Resorts before when traveling on a budget. But there’s something just a little nicer about Pop Century to us. And that is why it’s our favorite Value Resort at Walt Disney World.
Pop Century Resort Review
We love the theming throughout the Disney World Orlando Pop Century Resort It’s fun and bright, and it makes you feel like a kid again. But let’s make one thing clear. This is not the resort to come to if you’re trying to relax or be fancy. This is the resort you come to if you want to be surrounded by Disney and fun. It’s kitschy, kind of cheesy, and just plain silly fun. One of our favorite parts about Pop Century was that it was quieter than the All-Star Resorts. Which was nice! Perhaps not as relaxing as Caribbean Beach Resort or as fancy as the Grand Floridian Resort. But it has charms of its own.
If you’re looking to stay at Walt Disney World on a budget, Pop Century is our absolute favorite Disney Value resort. We hope this review has helped you in making a decision about your Walt Disney World Resort selection. Whether you choose to stay here or not! Have you stayed at Pop Century before? Did you love it, or not so much? We would love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
Melanie Renee is a photographer, writer, designer and mom. Visiting Disney destinations since 2010, she is also an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. When she's not creating her next coffee recipe, or designing apparel at Polka Dot Pixie Shop, she's seeking beautiful sunsets and planning her next trip .
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