Disney World Hotels

disney world hotels

If you’re anything like me, planning a trip to Disney World is super exciting, but with so many hotel options, it can also feel a bit overwhelming.

That’s why I put together this guide—to help you navigate all the choices and find the perfect Disney World hotels for your magical stay. Whether you’re looking for luxury, something budget-friendly, or just a cozy place to crash after a day in the parks, I’ve got you covered.

In this guide, I’ll give you a quick overview of all the hotel options, from those iconic Disney resorts to some great off-site picks.

Types of Disney World Hotels

When it comes to picking a place to stay at Disney World, there are so many options, and I know it can get a bit overwhelming. So, let me break it down for you:

  • Disney-Operated Hotels: These are the classic Disney spots that probably come to mind first, like Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort or Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort. Since Disney owns and runs these, you’ll get all the perks, like early park entry and super convenient transportation options.
  • Disney Vacation Club (DVC) Properties: These are a little different since they’re part of Disney’s timeshare program, but you don’t need to be a member to stay. Places like Bay Lake Tower have more spacious rooms, often with kitchens or kitchenettes, which can be awesome if you’re staying for a longer time.
  • “Other Select Hotels”: These are hotels run by other companies but still on Disney property, like the Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin or the Four Seasons Resort Orlando. They offer some of the Disney perks, like early park entry, but they’re not totally integrated into the Disney experience.
  • “Good Neighbor Hotels”: These are off-site hotels that Disney approves of. They don’t have the same perks as the Disney-owned ones, but they’re close to the parks and usually have shuttles to get you there.
  • Airbnbs: If you’re looking for more space or planning a longer stay, Airbnbs near Disney World can be a great option. You can get more of a homey vibe with full kitchens and multiple bedrooms, which is perfect if you’re traveling with family or a larger group.

With all these choices, you can really find something that fits exactly what you need, whether you want the full Disney experience or just a comfy place to rest after a day in the parks.

Disney-Operated Hotels

Deluxe Resorts

So, let’s talk about Disney’s Deluxe Resorts. These are the top-tier spots where you’ll find luxury theming, extended evening hours at the parks, and some pretty sweet transportation options that don’t involve buses. Think monorails, boats, or even walking paths to the parks.

  • Monorail Resorts:
    • Contemporary Resort: Super close to Magic Kingdom, with that cool retro-modern vibe. Plus, you can walk to the park or hop on the monorail.
    • Polynesian Village Resort: This resort has some of the best island theming around, complete with tiki torches and a beach for fireworks viewing.
    • Grand Floridian Resort & Spa: The grandest of them all with elegant Victorian theming, luxurious amenities, and of course, monorail access.
  • Boardwalk Area Resorts:
    • Yacht Club Resort: Nautical vibes, a huge pool with an epic water slide, and walking distance to Epcot and Hollywood Studios.
    • Beach Club Resort: A relaxed, beachy atmosphere with the same awesome pool as Yacht Club, plus easy access to the Boardwalk.
    • BoardWalk Inn: Whimsical and fun, right in the heart of the Boardwalk area, offering nightlife and entertainment just steps away from your room.
  • Other Deluxe Resorts:
    • Animal Kingdom Lodge: Imagine waking up to giraffes and zebras right outside your window. The theming here is out of this world, and the dining options are top-notch.
    • Wilderness Lodge: Rustic, cozy, and nestled among the pines, this resort gives you that Pacific Northwest vibe while being just a boat ride away from Magic Kingdom.

Moderate Resorts

Next up are the Moderate Resorts, which strike a balance between comfort and cost. The theming is a bit more grown-up, and you’ll find a mix of bus and Skyliner transportation, depending on the resort.

  • Port Orleans French Quarter: This small, charming resort feels like a little slice of New Orleans, with cobblestone streets and a laid-back vibe.
  • Port Orleans Riverside: A bit larger and more spread out, this resort has beautiful Southern theming and offers a boat ride to Disney Springs.
  • Caribbean Beach Resort: Tropical, colorful, and lively, with Skyliner access to Epcot and Hollywood Studios.
  • Coronado Springs Resort: A stunning mix of Spanish, Mexican, and Southwest American theming, complete with a grand tower and lots of dining options.

Value Resorts

If you’re looking to save some cash while still staying in the magic, Disney’s Value Resorts are a great pick. They’re budget-friendly, with lively theming and bus transportation to the parks.

  • Pop Century Resort: A celebration of pop culture from the ’50s through the ’90s, with Skyliner access to two parks.
  • Art of Animation Resort: Perfect for families, with themed rooms featuring beloved Disney characters and Skyliner access.
  • All-Star Resorts: These three resorts—Movies, Music, and Sports—are all about fun, with giant icons and lots of energy. They’re also the most affordable on Disney property.

Campgrounds & Cabins

For something truly unique, consider staying at The Campsites at Fort Wilderness Resort or The Cabins at Fort Wilderness Resort. The campsites are perfect if you’re bringing an RV or love the idea of tent camping at Disney. The cabins offer a more comfortable, homey experience with the added perks of a kitchen and living space, all set in a beautiful, wooded area filled with outdoor activities.

Disney Vacation Club (DVC) Properties

Alright, let’s dive into Disney Vacation Club (DVC) properties. These resorts are a bit different from the typical Disney hotels because they’re technically part of Disney’s timeshare program.

But don’t worry—you don’t need to be a DVC member to stay here. What makes these properties stand out is that they’re designed for longer stays, with features like full kitchens, kitchenettes, and even in-unit washers and dryers in some cases. This makes them perfect for families or anyone planning a more extended vacation.

DVC properties often fall under the “Deluxe Villas” category on the Disney World website. They offer all the perks of staying at a Disney-operated hotel, like early park entry and free transportation, but with the added comforts of home.

So, if you’re someone who likes to have a bit more space and the option to cook your own meals, DVC resorts might be just what you’re looking for.

This is just a quick overview, so if you’re curious to learn more, there are some great resources out there that dive deeper into the specifics of each DVC property.

Other Hotel Options on Disney Property

“Other Select Hotels”

Let’s dive into the hotels on Disney property that aren’t Disney-operated but still come with some great Disney perks.

These “Other Select Hotels” are managed by other companies but are located right in the heart of the magic.

You’ll still enjoy benefits like early park entry, though they may not have that full-on Disney theming.

  • Swan & Dolphin: Managed by Marriott, these hotels are part of the Epcot resort area, giving you easy access to both Epcot and Hollywood Studios. They’re perfect if you want Disney perks with a more business-class feel. If you’re exploring the best options, check out our guide to the best hotels at Disney World.
  • Four Seasons Resort Orlando: If luxury is your style, the Four Seasons is a standout choice. While not Disney-operated, it offers top-tier amenities, including fantastic dining, a stunning pool, and a golf course, along with early park entry.
  • Waldorf Astoria Orlando: Another luxurious option, the Waldorf Astoria brings elegance to Disney property with its world-class spa and fine dining. Plus, you still get that early park entry.
  • Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek: This modern resort is connected to the Waldorf Astoria and offers amenities like a lazy river and great dining, along with the perk of early park entry.
  • Disney Springs Hotels: These include hotels like the Hilton Orlando Buena Vista Palace. They offer early park entry and are just a short walk from all the shopping, dining, and entertainment at Disney Springs. For more nearby options, you might want to explore resorts near Disney World with shuttle services.

“Good Neighbor Hotels”

Now, let’s talk about the “Good Neighbor Hotels.”

These are off-site hotels that Disney has approved as reliable and convenient for your stay. While they don’t offer the same perks as the on-property resorts, they’re still close to the parks and have a few benefits that make them worth considering.

Good Neighbor Hotels usually provide shuttle services to the Disney parks (sometimes for a fee), and they have staff trained to help you plan your Disney trip. They’re a great option if you’re looking for more budget-friendly accommodations while still being near all the action.

If you’re hunting for a good deal, these can be a solid choice alongside some of the cheapest Disney hotels in Orlando.

Airbnbs Near Disney World

Let’s chat about staying in an Airbnb near Disney World. This option can be a real game-changer, especially if you’re looking for something a bit different from the usual hotel experience.

Pros:

  • Cost: Airbnbs can often be more affordable than traditional hotels, especially if you’re traveling with a group and splitting the cost.
  • Space: You’ll typically get more space than a standard hotel room, which is great for families or groups who want room to spread out.
  • Kitchen Access: Many Airbnbs come with full kitchens, allowing you to save money by preparing some meals at home instead of eating out all the time.

Cons:

  • Lack of Disney Perks: Unlike staying at a Disney-operated or select off-property hotel, you won’t get perks like early park entry or complimentary transportation to the parks.
  • Distance: Depending on the location, you might be a bit further from the parks compared to staying at an on-property hotel or a nearby Good Neighbor Hotel.
  • No Daily Housekeeping: Unlike hotels, you won’t have daily housekeeping services, so you’ll need to keep things tidy yourself during your stay.

In comparison to traditional hotels, Airbnbs offer a more home-like experience with plenty of space and the convenience of a kitchen, which can be especially beneficial for longer stays or for those traveling with kids. However, if you’re all about those Disney perks and convenience, a hotel might still be the way to go.

If you’re considering other options, you might also want to check out which Disney World Value Resort is the best for your needs.

How to Choose the Best Hotel for Your Disney Trip

Choosing the perfect hotel for your Disney trip can feel overwhelming, but considering these key factors can help:

  • Budget: Decide how much you’re willing to spend. Disney offers options from budget-friendly Value Resorts to luxurious Deluxe Resorts. For budget-conscious options, explore the cheapest Disney hotels in Orlando.
  • Transportation: Think about how you’ll get to the parks each day. Some hotels offer monorail or Skyliner access, while others rely on buses. If quick access is important, check out resorts near Disney World with shuttles.
  • Theming: Consider whether you want a hotel with immersive Disney theming, like the Grand Floridian, or something more subtle.
  • Amenities: Determine which amenities are most important to you, such as great pools like those at Yacht and Beach Club or a variety of dining options.
  • Proximity to Parks: Consider the convenience of being close to the parks. Some hotels are just a short walk or monorail ride away, while others might require a longer bus ride. For hotels with easy access, explore the best hotels at Disney World.

Comparison of Hotel Categories

Here’s a quick breakdown of the main differences between Disney hotel types:

  • Deluxe Resorts: High-end and most expensive, featuring luxury theming, top-tier amenities like spas and fine dining, and non-bus transportation. These resorts are often close to the parks, with options like monorail or boat access.
  • Moderate Resorts: Mid-range pricing with more mature theming. These resorts offer good dining options and pools, but primarily rely on bus transportation with some Skyliner access. They are moderately distanced from the parks.
  • Value Resorts: The most budget-friendly, with lively and fun Disney themes. Amenities are basic, with food courts and bus transportation, and they are generally further from the parks.
  • Other Select Hotels: Pricing varies, often comparable to Moderate or Deluxe. These hotels have less Disney-centric theming but offer high-end amenities. They also vary in proximity, with some providing early park entry.
  • Airbnbs: Often more affordable, especially for larger groups, though they lack Disney theming. Amenities vary widely, offering more space and kitchen access. Typically off-property, they require a drive to the parks.

By keeping these considerations in mind, you can choose the hotel that best fits your needs and ensures a magical Disney experience!