These 4 Disney World Hotels Just Got Even BETTER

For over 5 decades, hotels have been an essential part of the Walt Disney World experience, with the opening-day Polynesian Village and Contemporary resorts joined by more than 25 hotels since 1971.

Art of Animation Resort

Over that time, Disney’s hotels have served up a litany of special perks to guests, and in the summer of 2026, Disney has added some distinct… character to four of their resorts.

As part of the Cool Kids Summer promotion — which began in May and runs through September 8th — a litany of special perks is available to guests at 4 hotels: the Caribbean Beach Resort, Port Orleans Resort – Riverside, Art of Animation Resort, and Pop Century Resort. By far the biggest is the addition of scheduled character appearances at each of the hotels!

Mickey at Port Orleans — Riverside for Cool Kids’ Summer

First introduced in 2025, this game-changing perk allows guests to experience character encounters that were previously park-exclusive on days when they choose not to leave their hotels. This can be especially helpful for parents who want a bit of a cool-down day at their resort while still appeasing kiddos yearning for some Disney magic.

Minnie Mouse at Pop Century… with Donald in the background.

In addition to the character appearances, there are several other perks unique to these 4 hotels, including:

Special Libraries: Little ones can celebrate Disney stories in libraries provided by Disney Publishing, where the magic of their imaginations can come alive with tales of princesses, heroes, and more.
Pajama Party: Wind down with your family during story time! Participate in a “create your own bedtime story” activity, where the magic of a good book comes to life with the arrival of a favorite Disney Character.
Pool Party: Make a splash at a high-energy poolside experience with games and music for the whole family.
Campfire: Gather ‘round for a celebration filled with marshmallows and Disney-infused entertainment.

Pool Party!

Perks aren’t entirely limited to these 4 hotels, however, as guests at all of the on-property hotels have access to Disney’s free water perk. First introduced in 2025, this perk gives each member of a guest’s party free admission to one of Walt Disney World’s water parks, Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon, on their check-in day.

Typhoon Lagoon

Cool Kids Summer has brought a slew of perks to the Caribbean Beach, Port Orleans Riverside, Art of Animation, and Pop Century resorts! Stay tuned to DFB for more on Disney World’s latest offers.

Nobody Warned Us How Much We’d Love Staying in this Disney World Hotel Room

Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe!

WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.

Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.

Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!

Are you staying at one of these hotels this summer? Let us know in the comments below.