Disney's All-Star Music Resort

The huge steel star flanked by dozens of smaller stars at the resort's entrance trumpet the fact that this is a Disney All-Star resort. The star motif continues inside the lobby in a big way, and is paired with a music theme. Photos of music icons are displayed on the walls and music notes run the length of the long registration desk. There are several games available in the lobby to keep little guests occupied as their parents register. The registration area is understandably loud and a bit hectic at times, as families come and go in droves. Once checked in, guests tend to disperse among the expansive grounds, which include two pools along with huge musical instruments and other larger-than-life, music-themed displays. Bright colors are everywhere, which help create a festive atmosphere. Because it's a big property, it can be quite a trek to get from the lobby to some of the further-out rooms. Almost all of the guests here are on an Orlando family vacation. Expect a fairly bustling atmosphere with shouting and running kids, but the resort is mostly quiet and many guests appreciate the family-friendly vibe where kids can let loose. 

This Music Resort is one of three themed Disney All-Star properties (Movies and Sports are the other two). All three properties are located at the southern end of Walt Disney World, near the Animal Kingdom. Music is located in a quiet and relatively isolated area between the other two resorts, which are both about seven minutes away on foot. Other than the restaurants at the adjacent resorts, the only nearby dining option is a McDonald’s a four-minute drive away. Approximate drive times to top Disney parks are six minutes to Animal Kingdom, 12 minutes to Magic Kingdom, 12 minutes to Epcot Center, and 15 minutes to Downtown Disney. It takes about 25 minutes to drive to Universal Studios and 18 minutes to SeaWorld. The Orange County Convention Center is 21 minutes away by car. Orlando International Airport takes about a half-hour.

Guest rooms at the resort all run with the resort's star- and music-themed motifs in bed runners and in the artwork. However, the effect here isn't as cheery, and the light-wood furniture and accent walls in gaudy hues such as muted aquamarine feel tired overall. Gray acrylic vanities sit outside the small bathrooms, which have shower/tub combos and beige tiling with blue and rust accents. Standard Rooms run small, but each still has enough space for small tables and two chairs, plus two double beds. Families with more than four people will definitely want to upgrade. Family Suites provide queen beds in the bedrooms, double sleeper sofas, and twin sleeper ottomans and chairs in the living rooms. All rooms come with flat-screen TVs, safes, and mini-fridges. Family Suites add microwaves and coffeemakers. Note that past guests have complained about maintenance and cleanliness issues in the rooms. Another downside: Some rooms are a long trek (up to 15 minutes) from the lobby area and shuttle departure spot. 

While guest rooms may be underwhelming, features are where this resort shines, particularly for Disney families, the property's main clientele. Guests who sign up for the free MagicBand program can use their waterproof bracelets to access rooms, pay for food and drinks at the hotel, and even to get into the Disney Parks and make purchases. The bands are customizable and popular, since they allow for skipping payment lines. The resort provides free shuttle service taking guests to all Disney theme parks, water parks, and Downtown Disney. There's also a free airport shuttle, and free parking for guests with their own cars.The resort's two spacious outdoor pools are heated and reinforce the music theme. The Calypso pool is shaped like a guitar and has an adjacent splash pool, while the Piano pool’s tiling resembles black-and-white piano keys. There's also an outdoor playground and huge indoor game room. For dining, the Intermission Food Court features various American classics for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Adult beverages are available at the Singing Spirits Bar at the Calypso pool, and liquor is for sale in the gift shop, which also stocks snacks and Disney-themed paraphernalia. There's a popular gelato shop on the grounds, and guests can also have pizza delivered to their room. Coin-operated laundry facilities are open 24 hours. Valet dry-cleaning and laundry is available through the front desk. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.