The Best Place to Stay in Orlando for Disney
Today, we are going to discuss the best place to stay in Orlando for Disney. If you’re planning an Orlando vacation based around Disney, you need to read this!
Orlando, Florida, is a magical destination for any Disney enthusiast. With multiple theme parks and attractions, it’s no surprise that visitors want to stay as close as possible to the magic.
But with so many accommodation options available, it can be overwhelming to decide where to stay. In this blog post, we’ll explore the best places to stay in Orlando for a Disney World vacation, including on-site resorts, off-site hotels, and vacation rental homes.
Do I need a rental car for a Disney vacation?
I like to get around as needed while visiting Disney World Resort, so I like to rent a car. If you decide to rent a car in Orlando, I recommend renting a car from Discount USA Car Rental.
Discount USA Car Rental offers the best pricing, whether you’re flying into Orlando, Sanford, or even Tampa. As a bonus, you don’t have to pay anything until arriving at the airport, and cancellation is free.
If you need to find some reasonable flights, sign up for Going free alerts.
Best Place to Stay in Orlando for Disney
Staying in a Disney hotel offers a unique and immersive experience that enhances your overall visit to the theme parks. From the moment you step into the lobby, you are transported into a world of magic and wonder. The hotels are designed to cater to families, with amenities such as character breakfasts, kid-friendly pools, and easy transportation to and from the parks.
Moreover, the exceptional customer service and attention to detail synonymous with Disney ensures a stress-free and memorable stay. With an array of dining options, themed pools, and entertainment offerings right at your doorstep, a Disney hotel becomes an integral part of the vacation, adding an extra layer of joy and enchantment to your magical adventure.
Additionally, staying on Disney property sometimes allows you to take advantage of extra park hours and other perks, such as early access to FastPass+ reservations. Overall, staying in a Disney hotel offers a convenient and unforgettable way to fully immerse yourself in the Disney experience.
Here are the best places to stay in Orlando for Disney, listed in no particular order.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
More than 200 animals are living at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. It is possible to see some of those animals right from the window of your room.
This is one of the best hotels when you want to stay in a room with plenty of rustic features. There is a lot of woodwork throughout the spacious guest rooms.
You will find quick service and table service restaurants at this Disney resort. They both make it simple to eat when you want to.
This resort is a great option when you know you will be spending many of your days at Animal Kingdom. However, it is much further from the other 3 Disney theme parks. You will at least receive a complimentary shuttle service to any of the theme parks.
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is one of the closest resorts to the Magic Kingdom. Standard rooms and family suites are available at this stunning resort. However, Disney’s Polynesian Village is mostly known for its cuisine.
At the restaurants at this resort, you can order items like macadamia nut pancakes, Thai coconut meatballs, and Tonga toast. You won’t want to miss out on the HippopotoMai-Tai at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto either. This is the best bar on Disney World property.
Everyone can go down the water slides at the Lava Pool. However, you may be more interested in gazing at Cinderella’s Castle or the Seven Seas Lagoon. And at night, don’t miss the magic of the Magic Kingdom fireworks. You can see them right from the pool.
Waldorf Astoria Orlando
Waldorf Astoria Orlando is located on Bonnet Creek Resort Lane near Walt Disney World. The deluxe rooms and suites offer beautiful decor and all the amenities you need for your stay. There is plenty of space available for those few times you are in your room.
Business travelers will even enjoy these rooms thanks to the large desk and office chair. Add in the IT services suite, and everyone will be able to get their work done quickly.
Hotel guests can choose from numerous dining options or order room service when they are tired.
There are two swimming pools, as well as hot tubs. Reserve one of the cabanas if you plan an all-day pool adventure.
The Waldorf Astoria Golf Club is on-site. It is the perfect place to play a round or two at least if you don’t mind playing while distracted by the views on the 18-hole golf course.
Of course, if you don’t play golf, spending the day at the full-service spa might be the answer. Get pampered a little after theme park visits and before you head home.
Disney’s Pop Century Resort
The rooms at this Orlando area resort are spacious. Many of them have Murphy beds, so you can easily close them up for more room during the day.
Families will love the food court at mealtime. Everyone can get exactly what they want, and no one will complain!
The decor at this Disney resort is incredible. You can see massive statues of a Rubik’s Cube and an Etch a Sketch. Over at the Hippy Dippy Pool, everyone can watch a movie under the stars.
The one downside to staying at this Disney property is it isn’t close to any of the theme parks. Thankfully, the Skyliner gondola service, or a shuttle bus, can take you to the Disney parks. It is one of the perks, along with the other special offers, that makes it worthwhile to stay at a Disney resort or hotel.
Disney’s Beach Club Resort
You will find Disney’s Beach Club Resort on Crescent Lake. It is next door to Disney’s Yacht Club Resort.
As a guest, you can easily walk to Hollywood Studios in 20 minutes and Epcot in 5 minutes. The Boardwalk shopping and dining district is right across the water. You can easily hop onto the Friendship Boat to reach any of these destinations and other resorts.
The theme at this Disney resort focuses on the New England coast and the beach. So, if you are going on vacation for all things Disney, you won’t find much Disney decor here. The rooms are spacious though. And you can’t beat how close you are to everything.
There are a few popular dining options at this resort. So, you won’t ever have a difficult time finding something to eat.
The highlight of this Disney property includes 3 swimming pools and Stormalong Bay, which is a water park. This waterpark has a 230-foot water slide, as well as a lazy river.
Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort
Waldorf Astoria Orlando is not the only resort with a golf course in Orlando. The Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort has one too. It is also a family-friendly resort!
Families will love the bright and airy rooms and suites. I recommend reserving one of the suites because you get that ever-important second bathroom!
Kids will love heading down to the swimming pool. They can swim through caves, splash under waterfalls, and have a blast on the waterslide.
Adults can grab a workout at the fitness center. Play a round of golf at the golf course. Or relax at the full-service spa. There is even a business center if something pops up from work.
The three on-site restaurants are perfect when you need a bite to eat and don’t want to go out. There is a grab-and-go market too. This always comes in handy when you all need snacks.
Marriott Cypress Harbour Villas
Marriott Cypress Harbour Villas in Orlando offers an unforgettable vacation experience that seamlessly combines luxury and convenience. Nestled in the heart of Orlando’s renowned attractions, this resort provides an oasis of tranquility amidst the bustling excitement of the city.
Guests can enjoy spacious, well-appointed villas with modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing stay. The resort boasts a stunning lakeside setting, complete with lush landscaping and multiple pools, providing a serene backdrop for relaxation. Moreover, its proximity to top-notch theme parks, such as Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, makes it an ideal base for families and couples alike.
With excellent dining options, a range of recreational activities, and impeccable service, Marriott Cypress Harbour Villas promises an enchanting Orlando getaway. We stayed at Cypress Harbour Villas a while back and did an entire blog post about it. Check it out: Marriott Cypress Harbour Villas Review near Universal and Disney,
Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
Yes, Loews Portofino Bay is located at Universal Orladno Resrt. However, this is one of the best hotels in the Lake Buena Vista area. It is a great place to choose when you want to stay at an official park resort. The best part is this resort is a short drive from the Orlando International Airport.
This beautiful hotel has an Italian theme. It may seem strange at first since you are planning a full Disney trip. However, the cobblestone streets and courtyards will quickly win you over.
The guest rooms are all spacious, especially the bathrooms. You can choose from the many dining options when you want to eat. They even have a bar and grill down by the pool, so you don’t need to stop having fun to go to an actual restaurant!
Speaking of swimming pools, there are 3 of them at the Loews Portofino Bay Hotel. The Beach Pool is very family-friendly. However, it can get crowded. I recommend arriving early for a prime spot if you plan on being there for a while.
You can easily make the short drive to any of the Disney theme parks while staying at this hotel. However, it is much closer to Universal Studios. It’s actually part of Universal Orlando Resort.
It is within walking distance of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and CityWalk. The best part is hotel guests get early theme park entry at Universal Studios. This perk is so worth it and one of the reasons many people choose this resort for their Orlando vacation.
Four Seasons Resort Orlando
You will find the Four Seasons Resort Orlando over in Lake Buena Vista. This resort is secluded on 26 acres. Lush gardens, swaying palm trees, and looming cypress trees surround the buildings.
Every guest room overlooks the swimming pools and gardens. You may even be able to spot the fireworks from Magic Kingdom from your room.
Breakfast can be spent with Goofy if you dine at Ravello on certain days of the week. There are a few other dining options for other meals. Capa is best for late-night dinners and views of the fireworks.
Your days can be spent in the swimming pools, on the lazy river, or shopping at one of the 3 on-site boutiques. There is also a basketball court and tennis courts for those family sporting events.
Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Orlando is the theme park capital of the world. Magic Kingdom happens to be the theme park that is visited the most in Orlando. So, staying at a hotel close to Magic Kingdom is a must for many families.
Disney’s Contemporary Resort allows you to reach Magic Kingdom via a short walk or short ride on the monorail. This makes it perfect if you need to head back to your room for a break or a nap in the middle of the day.
There are plenty of dining options at this resort. When you are not at the Orlando theme parks, your family will be entertained with all the children’s activities. You may even get a little workout in at the fitness center.
If you have a few hours available, I recommend renting a power boat. The entire family will love going out on a boat ride.
Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
As I mentioned above, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort is next to Disney’s Beach Club Resort. This means when you stay at either resort, you have access to Stormalong Bay.
This is one of the best places to stay if you are only doing a couple of days at the theme parks in Orlando. The rest of your time can be spent in the water at this incredible water park.
Nautical touches are located throughout this Walt Disney World hotel. All the spacious guest rooms offer views of the garden, woods, or swimming pool.
You can dine at any of the on-site restaurants. Each one offers foods your entire family will love. And trust me; you will be starving after all the fun you are having in the Disney parks each day. Just make sure you save some energy for this resort’s campfire activities and their movies under the stars.
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa
If you want to stay in one of the luxury Disney hotels in Orlando, then Disney’s Grand Floridian should be at the top of your list. This resort offers easy access to Magic Kingdom. You can either walk there on the new walking path or head over on the monorail or water taxi.
There are plenty of places to dine at this Disney resort. Victoria and Albert’s just reopened for your dining pleasure. You can’t dine there with children under the age of 10. Don’t worry; there are other restaurant options your children will enjoy more.
This resort recently went through renovations. The spacious rooms are wonderful, and you will love all the upscale amenities. Especially the spa, if you can manage to sneak away for an hour or two anyway.
The best time to stay at Disney’s Grand Floridian is during the holidays. At Christmas, they put up spectacular Christmas displays that include a real-life gingerbread house.
Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek
Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek is an official Walt Disney World hotel. The spacious guest rooms are luxurious. They include many of the luxurious amenities you have come to expect during a Disney vacation.
Inside your guest room, you will have flat-screen TVs, wireless internet access, a mini refrigerator, an in-room coffee maker, and a safe that is large enough for a laptop.
There are plenty of restaurants on-site for dining. However, you do have the option to dine in your room if you are too tired to go out at the end of the day.
This resort doesn’t have too many recreational activities. However, there is a pool, spa, and golf course nearby. One of the many reasons travelers stay at this hotel in Central Florida is it offers convenient access to Disney Springs and Downtown Orlando.
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
One of the best deluxe resorts in Orlando is Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. This lodge offers standard rooms that are big enough for families. However, if you want more space, I do recommend reserving one of the cabins in the woods. You’ll get a little more privacy at the cabins, which are considered part of the moderate resorts in Disney.
When you walk into the lobby, expect the kids to wander away quickly. They will start to follow the water feature that turns into a creek and leads everyone directly to the 2 outdoor pools. Trust me when I say you will spend a lot of time at those swimming pools!
Family-friendly dining is everywhere at this resort. Be careful about asking for more ketchup at the Whispering Canyon Cafe. You may get enough ketchup to last a lifetime.
Oh, and if you are a fan of rare Disney characters like the Evil Queen, head over to Storybook Dining at Artist Point. The Evil Queen and other characters may show up while you are eating.
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
This is one of the best Disney resorts for larger families. The connecting guest rooms are perfect when you want a little more space for the kids.
Those guest rooms are located in 4 different wings. Those wings are dedicated to The Little Mermaid, The Lion King, Finding Nemo, and Cars. You can easily choose the wing you know your family will love the most!
There is only 1 restaurant at this resort. However, you may overlook that once you realize this resort has the largest pool out of all the best Disney World hotels and resorts. The whole family will love swimming in the Big Blue Pool. Although, your room may be further from the outdoor pool than you would like.
Reaching the Disney theme parks is simple from this resort. Hop onto the Skyliner or bus, and you will be at the theme park of your choice in no time.
Walt Disney World Dolphin Resort
This Disney resort is part of the Swan and Dolphin resorts. They are sister hotels.
The Walt Disney World Dolphin Resort has more than 1,500 rooms and suites. Many of them overlook Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Guests can dine in one of the 11 restaurants or lounges. When not visiting one of the area’s theme parks, you can spend time in one of the four swimming pools. There is even a white sand beach area where you can sink your toes in the sand.
All guests will receive unique Walt Disney World Resort benefits during their stay.
Walt Disney World Swan Resort
The Walt Disney World Swan Resort is a little smaller than the Dolphin Resort. However, all guests still get the same gorgeous views of Epcot and Hollywood Studios from some of the 700-plus rooms and suites.
There are only 8 restaurants and lounges and one open-air pool area. Yet this is still perfect for the little time you will be at your hotel outside theme park hours.
The best part is you still receive all those Disney benefits as a guest!
Oh, and since this Disney resort is so close to Hollywood Studios, you can easily be one of the first people to enter the new Star Wars land. This convenient location is key if you don’t want to stand in a long line.
Hilton Grand Vacations Club at SeaWorld
Staying at the Hilton Grand Vacations Club at SeaWorld will have you visiting one of the best areas in Orlando. The main attraction near this hotel is SeaWorld Orlando. However, you will also be close to International Drive, Rollins College, and the Orange County Convention Center. You will also be within driving distance of the city center.
Don’t worry; you are also quite close to the Walt Disney Company theme parks. So, you can easily visit them every day while staying at this hotel.
Most of the family suites here have two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a full kitchen, and a dining room. Not all the rooms and suites are within close proximity of the three swimming pools. However, it really isn’t a far walk to reach any of them. And the one with the waterfall is worth the short walk.
There is only one restaurant at this hotel near the Orlando theme parks. There is also a market that serves coffee and pastries in the morning.
The kids will love the game room and planned daily activities. During the peak season, movies are offered at the pool in the evenings.
The Best Place to Stay in Orlando for Disney
There you have it; the best place to stay in Orlando for Disney. Did you find a place to stay near Disney that works for you? Do you have a favorite Disney Resort – or non-Disney Resort? Let me know in the comments!
Things to do in Orlando
If you’re planning an Orlando vacation and looking for things to do at Disney, Universal, and beyond, check out some of our most popular Orlando travel tips:
- 22 Things to Do at Universal Orlando
- The Best Place to Stay at Universal Orlando
- The 27 Best Places to Eat in Orlando for Families
- The Best Fanny Pack for Disney
- 30 Things to Do at Disney World Resorts
- The best state parks near Orlando
- 50 free things to do in Orlando
Are you planning a Disney Vacation?
I highly recommend buying your tickets through Undercover Tourist. Unfortunately, there are many scammy sites out there, so make sure you’re booking through an approved partner like Undercover Tourist.
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