Disney's Coronado Springs Resort is like a journey to the old Southwest. The architecture and decor is modeled after Mexico and the American Southwest during America's pioneer days.

There are three distinct areas clustered around a man-made lake, Lago Dorado. Each area has a slightly different architectural theme. The Casitas are three or four story buildings of stucco painted in soft colors. The Ranchos are more rustic adobe and wood, while the Cabanas are more tropical with corrugated tin roofs. The room decor is the same for each area. Standard rooms have two double beds or one king, sleeping up to four persons.

The main pool area is quite spectacular - a Mayan ruin 'architectural dig site'. The pool surrounds a Mayan pyramid and features a towering water slide. There is a kiddie pool and a superlative playground. The playground is so good it is has its own name, Explorer's Playground.

Disney's Coronado Springs is a wonderfully themed resort for the budget minded. It was designed to be a moderately priced convention hotel, as well as a family resort. Because of its focus on conventions, services are a bit above-average for a hotel in its price range.