Best Disney World Hotels For An Extra
Here are 13 of the best Disney World hotels for every budget and travel style.
When Disney World first opened 50 years ago, the resort had just one theme park and two hotels. Today, the massive resort complex is home to more than 20 themed Walt Disney World hotels and four of the world’s most popular theme parks. With that in mind, planning a Disney World vacation might seem overwhelming, but don’t worry we’ve rounded up 13 of the best hotels near Disney World to help you get started.
Before you book a room, there are a few things you should know about Disney World hotels. Disney categorizes their on-site hotels and resorts as Deluxe, Deluxe Villas, Moderate, Value, and Campgrounds. All Disney resorts have benefits like complimentary transportation to the theme parks, early park entry, and of course, Disney-level theming and service. Deluxe properties tend to be the most expensive, the closest to the theme parks , and the most luxurious, and starting this fall, guests staying at a resort in the Deluxe category can enjoy extended nighttime hours in the theme parks, too. There are also area hotels that are not owned by Disney like the Four Seasons and Waldorf Astoria that offer some of the same perks found at Disney hotels.
From safari-inspired luxury hotels to guest-favorite properties celebrating 50 years of magical memories, here are 13 of the best Disney World hotels.
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Best Of The Disney World Hotels For A Unique Experience
The Treehouse Villas are part of Disneys Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa located across the lake from Disney Springs. Each of the Treehouse Villas are perched on pedestals 10 feet above the ground in the canopy. The posh, woodsy, octagonal three-bedroom treehouses have room for nine people, and include two baths, an open kitchen with granite countertops, flat-panel TVs, a barbecue grill, and an elevated deck. Designed to blend into the natural wilderness environment, your treehouse deck will feel miles away from the hustle and bustle of the theme park on quiet starry nights.
Orlando Hotels With Shuttles To Disney World & Universal Studios
There are plenty of amazing hotels with shuttle service to both Walt Disney World and Universal Studios Orlando that would make for a great place to rest your head after a tiring day at the parks.
Today we are tackling Orlando hotels with shuttle to theme parks. While we will always suggest guests stay on-site while visiting Disney World and Universal studios, sometimes hotel jumping just isnt in the cards for this holiday. And thats ok too.
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Disney’s Port Orleans Resort Riverside
Best for: Families, couples
On-site amenities: 5 pools including a water park and a catch-and-release fishing hole, food court
Pros: The hotel has a romantic, picturesque vibe, especially when you opt for a horse-drawn carriage ride around the property. There is also a food court with a vast array of options.
Cons: The resort is large and sprawling, so it is easy to get off course. It also takes longer to navigate to the parks since the main transportation option is the bus.
While Disney’s Port Orleans Resort French Quarter celebrates New Orleans proper, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort Riverside is an ode to the rural Louisiana Bayou.
All the rooms still have a bit of N’awlins flair, but we suggest upgrading to one of their Royal Guest Rooms, which includes more opulent furnishings and tributes to Tiana from “Princess and the Frog,” alongside other classic Disney princesses.
COVID-19 procedures are available here. This hotel is temporarily closed.
Disney World Resorts Provide Convenient Transportation
Staying at a Disney World Resort offers some nice perks, and they start when you arrive at the Orlando airport.
Disney’s Magical Express gives guests a free shuttle to their Disney World resort. When guests arrive at the airport, they head to a special welcome desk and board a “Disney’s Magical Express” bus to their resort.
Guests don’t even need to pick up their luggage before their trip, special Disney luggage tags are mailed out, and the tagged luggage is picked up at the airport and delivered to guests’ rooms.
Also, for many major airlines, guests can check in right in the resort’s lobby for their return flight home. Boarding passes are issued and bags are checked guests can then enjoy the resort until it’s time to board the Magical Express bus to the airport.
Transportation is also provided between Disney World resorts and the parks themselves. To get to the Magic Kingdom, the most convenient scenario is to stay at one of the Disney World resorts that have monorail or boat transportation. Both options are fun, convenient, and save time. The monorail continues on to the Epcot theme park as well. Epcot and Disney’s MGM Studios can also be reached by boat.
From all Disney World resorts, the excellent Disney buses run continuously to the theme parks and water parks and are blissfully cool on a hot day. The buses also shuttle from one theme park to another.
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Bonus: The Walt Disney World Swan And Dolphin Resorts
As a bonus, I also wanted to include two hotels that are great for adults but arent specifically considered Disney resorts. The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resorts are located on Disney property by the Boardwalk and Yacht Club. So, they in an extremely convenient location and are some of the best hotels in the area.
However, guests at the Swan and Dolphin dont get all of the same amenities as on-property guests. They do, however, get to use transportation between the parks, which can be very helpful.
While the Swan and Dolphin are extremely comfortable hotels with great amenities, they dont have the same theming at the Disney resorts. So, kids may not be as excited by them. Adults, however, will appreciate the comfortable rooms and the delicious restaurants located there.
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Orlando is home to a variety of theme parks and attractions, family fun for everyone! Luckily, the home of Universal Studios and Disney World is also home to some of the most upscale, posh hotels in all of America. If you want to make your vacation a truly memorable one, check out the top luxury hotels near Disney Orlando.
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This luxury golf hotel is within Walt Disney World Resort, and offers both luxury and convenience for the ultimate vacation experience. The rooms are carefully designed, and they mimic the fun nature of Disney World. The refined balcony rooms feature cool color schemes, and come with free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs, as well as marble bathrooms with soaking tubs. There is nightly fireworks viewing from parkside rooms, and some luxe 1- to 3-bedroom suites come with free-standing tubs, fireplaces, and kitchens.
Within the Four Seasons are an array of restaurants, including a steakhouse and a Cuban eatery. There are 3 bars, a luxurious spa with 18 treatment rooms, a golf course, a water park with huge slides and multiple pools, tennis courts, and a fitness center. All these amenities are conveniently packaged in your daily resort fee, so be sure to fully indulge in them.
The resort is absolutely perfect for kids. They enjoy the on-site Lazy River and splashing about in the swimming pool after a long day of fun. Additionally, the Mickey and Minnie Mouse breakfast holds a special affection for them.
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Monorail & Magic Kingdom Area Deluxe Resorts
Disneys Contemporary Resort Review Thanks to its A-frame design and the monorail running through it, the Contemporary has a distinct look. It offers convenient access to the Magic Kingdom via monorail or walking path, and to Epcot via monorail. Good dining options are another plus, as is the compact layout. Weaknesses are high nightly rates, generic pool, and that the hotel is showing its age and hardly feels contemporary..
Disneys Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Walt Disney Worlds flagship resort, but arguably not worthy of that distinctionor the high prices. The lobby and restaurants are grandiose and luxurious, but the rooms leave a lot to be desired. They are bland and not as well-appointed as could be expected. Grand Floridian offers excellent on-site dining, location within walking distance of Magic Kingdom on the monorail loop, and a nice ambiance in general around the resort. .
Disneys Polynesian Village Resort Review The Poly as its known by fans, this resort celebrates tiki culture, meaning that its more of a 1970s caricature than an authentic portrayal. This is not a knock on the hotel, as its a fun environment. Strengths of the Polynesian are its beautiful grounds, great restaurants, and location on the monorail, making it a short ride to the Magic Kingdom. Its also a short walk to the Ticket & Transportation Center. Weaknesses are that its one of the most expensive resorts at Walt Disney World, and is dated in some regards. .
Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Resort
Situated across the street from Disney Springs, Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Resort offers comfortable rooms and fun activities.
The hotel features a massive Oasis Aquatic Pool Playground, two outdoor pools, a hot tub, and several restaurants.
A popular spot is the chic Oasis poolside restaurant serving lunch and dinner.
Guests will also enjoy early access to Fast Pass+ bookings and complimentary Extra Magic Hours at the theme parks.
The frequent free shuttle runs to and from all Disney World theme parks.
Make sure to confirm pick-up locations at the hotels reception.
The hotel features 232 spacious and family-friendly rooms with free Wi-Fi, fridges, and modern bathrooms.
We suggest staying at the Disney View room, overlooking Disney World.
- Guest Rating: 8.5
- Nearest Theme Parks: Disney Springs
- Address: 1850 Hotel Plaza Boulevard, Lake Buena Vista, Orlando, FL 32830, United States
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Hilton Buena Vista Palace
Another Disney Trippers choice!!!
Those involved with the Hilton Honors Point system should definitely check out this hotel near Disney, as you can get amazing deals on stays In addition, the Hilton Buena Vista Palace is known for its availability, even during peak season at Disney .
One of the reasons we believe it is one of the best resorts near Disney is also because most rooms come with a private balcony and a mini-fridge! Not to mention, the beloved lazy river you can enjoy at this off-site hotel. We highly recommend asking for a pool view room on the island-building!!!
Other benefits include a Disney Store on the property and close proximity to Disney Springs! For those of us who enjoy Disney shopping, this is the hotel for you!
Check rates on Booking.com
Rent Dvc Points To Save Lots
Because of the on-property convenience fee built into the deluxe Disney resort prices, its always a good to use every saving strategy. The best money saving tip we use is to book the Disney Vacation Club rentals by renting DVC points from owners. The other benefit besides saving money is that the DVC rental options are often newer and more comfortably appointed than the hotel rooms.
Rather than booking from strangers, we use Davids Vacation Club as the intermediary service that protects renters and represents the owners.
You can rent Disney Vacation club points to stay at the best onsite Disney hotels provided that they can match you with an owner. Aulani, the Grand Californian at Disneyland, and the Vero Beach property are also options as Disney Vacation Club villas.
The Davids DVC rental site has a point and cash calculator that shows the point and cash amount based on your travel dates at the DVC properties. Using points offers a considerable discount. Seriously, check out your stay dates for yourself on Davids DVC calculator vs. on TripAdvisor as a hotel reservation.
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Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Start each day by greeting giraffes, zebras, and other animals when you stay at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. With an African safari feel, this resort offers an experience unlike anything found elsewhere in the United States. The Deluxe resort is located near Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park, but it feels like it’s part of the park thanks to the animal programs and savanna-view rooms. Other on-site amenities include themed pools and unique dining experiences showcasing African flavors.
Best Disney Moderate Resorts
Disneys Coronado Springs Resort
Disneys Coronado Springs Resort is an amazing option for people who want a luxe experience without the expensive price tag that deluxe resorts require. With its lovable Southwest atmosphere, you can get awesome food, enjoy a themed pool, and even dig in an archaeological-themed playground. For more information, check out our Disneys Coronado Spring Resort review!
Upsides
The grounds at Disneys Coronado Springs Resort are absolutely stunning. The combination of Spanish, Mexican, and Southwestern influences combined with the natural beauty of Lago Dorado make the atmosphere of this Disney World resort absolutely breathtaking.
The restaurants at Disneys Coronado Springs Resort are also fantastic, especially for a moderate resort. Located right in the middle Lago Dorado, Three Bridges Bar & Grill is a true standout. Between its Szechuan peppercorn wings and the Three Bridges Signature Burger, guests are consistently pleased with this Disney dining option. If youre looking for an option thats a little classier, Toledo serves up some divine Spanish cuisine.
Lastly, the Lost City of Cibola pool is a special treat. The Lost City of Cibola pool is home to a 123-foot-long water slide and a 50-foot Mayan pyramid! Are you ready to go on an adventure to discover more?
Downsides
Disneys Port Orleans Resort Riverside
Upsides
Downsides
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Disney Swan And Dolphin Resort
A Disney Trippers choice!!!!!!
The Disney Swan and Dolphin Resort is the best Marriott near Disney World, hands down! This resort is the best for a few reasons! One is, of course, transportation! While staying at this state of the art Marriott near Disney World, you get DIRECT Disney Transportation via boat to Epcot AND Hollywood Studios! In addition, there is even a walking path you can follow for a nice 15 minute walk to Epcot! Bus transportation is also provided to Disneys Magic Kingdom Park.
The prices at Swan and Dolphin are significantly less than Disney-owned hotels, and it is considered the best compromise between Disney and non-Disney hotels. Since it is also the best Marriott near Disney World, you get more amenities than you would in a typical Disney World hotel.
If you plan on spending the majority of your time at Hollywood Studios or Epcot, this is the best hotel near Disney World for you!!
Check rates on Hotels.com
Disneys Caribbean Beach Resort
Caribbean Beach Resort is the oldest hotel in the Moderate collection . And while Caribbean Beach has received upgrades, its hotel rooms are spread far around the property in two-story buildings. A central dining area called Old Port Royale is more grab-and-go than gourmet.
The main pool area has a pirate theme that young ones may find entertaining, but its also a bit small for a resort that large.
If you still decide Caribbean Beach is the resort for you, avoid the pirate rooms unless youre OK with smaller-than-normal beds and really want the theme since it costs extra.
While recent renovations and the addition of the Skyliner have improved Caribbean Beach, its still not our favorite. The internal resort bus loop isnt great and theres not a lot of charm for the price.
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The 13 Best Disney World Hotels For Every Age Group And Interest
Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando isnt just The Most Magical Place on Earth. Its also the ultimate vacation destination for families. But when it comes to choosing where to stay for your Disney vacation, its easy to get overwhelmed by all the hotels and theme parks in Orlando. There are more than 30 hotels affiliated with Disney alone!
What Restrictions Are In Place At Disney
While a face mask is not required for walking around the parks outside anymore, masks are currently required indoors except when you are actively eating or drinking.
To enter the resorts, both a park reservation and a valid theme park admission ticket for the same park on the same date are required. A hotel reservation does not guarantee theme park access.
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Bohemian Hotel Celebration Autograph Collection
Well served by the Interstate 4, many popular Orlando attractions are within easy reach of the Homewood Suites by Hilton Lake Buena Vista, including the SeaWorld and the Universal Studios. Its wonderful proximity to the Walt Disney World Resort has burnished its reputation, and its well-appointed rooms, as well as marvelous on-site facilities, have further consolidated its position as one of the top-notch hotels in the area.
Greet the morning with a hot, sumptuous breakfast, and tuck into an extravagant feast on select evenings. Then, have a refreshing dip in the vast swimming pool or work up a sweat in the well-equipped fitness center. At the end of the day, make use of the free high-speed internet to document your vacation, and take advantage of the fully furnished kitchenette to prepare your own meal if you wish to. Every element of the property is geared towards making your stay as comfortable as possible. Guests to the hotel enjoy the cleanliness and friendly staff. The safe environment in the hotel brings peace of mind. The family-friendly hotel rooms are serviced daily.