Best Hotels Near Disney World, Orlando, Florida

The 12 Best Hotels Near Disney World (Orlando, Florida)

If you’re planning a trip to Orlando, chances are a visit to Disney World is at the top of your to-do list. The world-famous theme park is located 20 minutes outside of downtown Orlando and spans 47 square miles in central Florida’s picture-perfect Bay Lake and Lake Buena Vista area. With so many unique things to see, do, and eat, there’s a good reason why Disney World is known as “The Most Magical Place on Earth!”

The park first opened its doors in 1971 and has grown into four main parks: Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Epcot, and Hollywood Studios. Each park is completely unique and has so much to offer that you could easily spend days (or even weeks) exploring each park! Disney World is without a doubt one of the best things to do in Florida

If you’re searching for the perfect hotel near Disney World, you’ll have plenty of themed resorts, family-friendly retreats, and luxury hotels to choose from. So many, in fact, that you might have a hard time choosing the perfect one. So we’ve created a list of the 12 best hotels near Disney World to help you plan your perfect getaway!

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The 12 Best Hotels Near Disney World

1. Four Seasons Resort Orlando 

Best Hotels Near Disney World: Four Seasons
Photos: Four Seasons

Nestled inside Disney World, in the exclusive Golden Oak neighborhood, Four Seasons is the perfect pick if you want to live in the lap of luxury during your Orlando vacation. It is hands down one of the best hotels near Disney World. Expect stellar service, luxurious rooms and suites, and all sorts of cool amenities!

You’ll love whiling away the hours floating along the lazy river, splashing around in the two infinity pools, speeding down waterslides in the massive waterpark, and getting pampered at the spa. If you’re looking for more action, the resort also boasts a golf course, a fitness center, and tennis, volleyball, and basketball courts. 

Even the chic standard rooms are the epitome of luxury. Rooms are outfitted with large balconies, stylish contemporary furnishings, and luxe marble baths. But if you want to go all out, a stay in one of the suites is bound to be an unforgettable experience! 

With nine restaurants, bars, and lounges, you’ll never go hungry. If you’re traveling with your little ones, you’ll definitely want to have breakfast with Goofy and his friends at Ravello. And for a special dinner, the rooftop restaurant Capa offers spectacular views of Disney’s fireworks show and specializes in premium Wagyu steaks.


2. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Closest Hotels to Disney World: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Photos: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Animal lovers will definitely want to stay at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. Spanning 580 acres, a spectacular wildlife reserve, and four savannas, Animal Kingdom is the largest theme park in the world. Plus, you’ll find over 200 animals roaming the grounds of this one-of-a-kind resort, including giraffes, zebras, and elephants!

The entire resort has an African safari theme so expect to find thatched-roof huts, traditional mud and stone buildings, and African art throughout this unique resort. Most of the ultra-friendly staff hail from countries around Africa and are more than happy to tell you all about their home countries. 

You can choose from a range of luxurious lodge-themed rooms, including studios and multi-room villas. If you opt for a savanna-view room, chances are you’ll spot gazelles and giraffes munching on leaves just outside your balcony!

While this resort has all sorts of awesome amenities, it features the most unique dining options of all the Disney World resorts. You can embark on a safari and dine on a multi-course dinner or if you want to sample traditional African fare, head over to Jiko – The Cooking Place. At Jiko, you can sample a range of South African wines and African-inspired dishes from Cape Malay Seafood Curry to Botswana-Style Beef Short Ribs.

Check Price & Availability on Hotels.com


3. The Alfond Inn

Cool Hotels Near Disney World: The Alfond Inn
Photos: The Alfond Inn

If you’re planning on paying a visit to Disney World but prefer to be based in a more residential part of town, The Alfond Inn is a popular pick. This luxury hotel is located in Winter Park and is just steps away from all of the restaurants and boutique shops that line the bustling Park Avenue. Plus, Disney World is an easy 30-minute drive away. 

The Alfond Inn offers all the amenities of a luxury resort while also creating the intimate feel of a designer boutique hotel. Expect top-notch customer service, modern rooms, and excellent on-site eateries. 

You’ll love soaking up the Florida sun from the rooftop pool, perusing the hotel’s rotating art collection from the Alfond Collection of Contemporary Art at Rollins College, and working up a sweat at the fitness center. 

It’s well worth dining at the hotel’s award-winning Hamilton’s Kitchen restaurant at least once. This place is so good it’s super popular among celebrities! The restaurant serves up Southern-inspired dishes like shrimp and grits with jambalaya and jerk-infused jackfruit.

Each of the 113 rooms and suites boasts sophisticated furnishings, plush beds, and deluxe ensuites with designer bath products.


4. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Cool Disney Hotels in Orlando, Florida: Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa
Photos: Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is arguably the best of the bunch when it comes to Disney World’s numerous Disney-owned resorts. The hotel was actually modeled after the Victorian-style Hotel Del Coronado in San Diego so expect the perfect blend of antique furnishings and modern touches around every corner.

Set right near the entrance of Magic Kingdom park, you can use the boat, bus, and monorail system to easily access Disney World’s parks, shops, and eateries. Plus, it’s free for guests! The hotel is located on Seven Seas Lagoon, where you can go on boating, fishing, and fireworks watching excursions. 

If you want to do the Grand Floridian right, definitely book one of the exclusive club-level rooms or suites in the main building. The attentive staff add thoughtful touches to these luxurious units, from freshly cut flowers to ultra-comfy robes. With these rooms, you can also consult with the private concierge, enjoy complimentary continental breakfasts in the exclusive lounge, and mingle over free wine and beer in the evenings. 

This hotel has so many amazing amenities, including a pool with a water slide, a world-class spa and salon, and 11 bars and restaurants. For a special meal, dine on the lake and watch the fireworks explode over Cinderella’s Castle at Narcoossee’s!

Check Price & Availability on Hotels.com


5. Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek

Best Hotels Near Disney World: Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek
Photos: Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek

It might not sound like it, but the Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek is actually an official Disney resort. Book a stay at this luxurious hotel and you’ll have access to all sorts of Disney-related perks. Plus, you’ll be located on a serene nature reserve inside the park’s perimeters so the location can’t be beat! 

If you want to beat the crowds, you can opt to be a part of Disney’s Extra Magic Hours program. Through the program, you can get early entry into one of the parks each day or stay at Disney World for two hours after the park officially closes. When you’re not bouncing around Disney World, you’ll love taking advantage of all of the hotel’s amazing amenities! 

Drift along the lazy river, take a dip in the massive pool, or go big and book a private poolside cabana for the day. You’ll also have full access to neighboring Waldorf Astoria’s golf course and spa. The Hilton also offers a wide range of dining options, including an excellent Italian restaurant, a hip sushi bar, and a casual poolside bar and grill.


6. Grand Bohemian Hotel Orlando

Cool Disney Hotels in Orlando, Florida: Grand Bohemian Hotel
Photos: Grand Bohemian Hotel

If you’re planning a trip to Disney World but want to be based right in the heart of Orlando, the Grand Bohemian Hotel is one of the coolest hotels near Disney World. Not only can you walk to some of the city’s best bars, restaurants, and nightlife venues but Disney World is a quick 20-minute drive away.

Step inside this boldly decorated hotel and you’ll be wowed by the lavish decor and $6.5 million collection of artwork. The collection is so impressive, you’ll definitely want to grab a glass of wine and spend an hour or two perusing the impressive works. 

You’ll love all of the hotel’s luxurious amenities. You can get a massage or facial at the spa, work on your tan at the rooftop pool, and keep up with your routine at the state-of-the-art gym. 

The hotel also boasts a Starbucks with grab-n-go snacks, a chic cocktail lounge, and one of the most trendy restaurants in town. The upscale Boheme Restaurant serves up creative New American dishes and hosts an incredible jazz brunch every Sunday, which is popular among guests and locals alike! 

With whimsical decor and velvet drapery, the rooms are the epitome of style. You can get a good night’s sleep on the Sealy Posturepedic bed, catch up on emails at the designated workstation, or grab a midnight snack from the well-stocked minibar. 


7. Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort

Best Hotels Near Disney World: Swan and Dolphin Hotel
Photos: Swan and Dolphin Resort

The Swan and Dolphin hotels are actually two separate buildings located within one massive resort. While the resort isn’t officially inside the park, you’ll be a quick 10-minute walk to two Disney parks and a short 15-minute bus ride from the other two. Plus, you’ll have access to added perks, including advance FastPass+ booking, Extra Magic Hours, and free use of Disney’s park transportation.

Explore the grounds and you’ll find all sorts of cool amenities. You’ll love splashing around in the five heated pools, lounging around in the private poolside cabanas, playing a competitive game of beach volleyball, and getting rejuvenated at Mandara Spa. 

The resort is also home to a whopping 17 restaurants and lounges. You can eat breakfast with your favorite Disney characters at The Garden Grove, snack on award-winning sushi at Kimonos, have an Italian dinner at Il Mulino, and celebrate a special occasion at Shula’s Steakhouse. 

Contemporary rooms are all outfitted with modern furniture, signature Heavenly Beds, 42-inch flat-screens, and mini-fridges. If you want to see the nightly fireworks show, it’s well worth upgrading to a balcony room with resort views!


8. Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

Disney World Hotels in Florida: Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Photos: Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

When it comes to themed resorts, you can’t beat Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. The entire place was designed to give you the experience of staying in a (luxurious) village in the South Seas. Located on the shores of Seven Seas Lagoon, you’ll feel like you’re on a remote tropical island in the South Pacific!

The resort has a range of unique amenities, including access to the Extra Magic Hours program. When you’re not exploring Disney World, kids and adults alike will love the hotel’s family-friendly “volcano” pool and its waterslide, soothing hot tubs, and adults-only pool. You can also spend your days getting a workout on the tropical jogging trail, gathering around the campfire during movie nights, or renting a boat and exploring Seven Seas Lagoon.

When it comes to drinking and dining, you’ll be spoiled for choice with the hotel’s 11 bars and restaurants. Kids will definitely want to have breakfast with their favorite Disney characters at ’Ohana and adults shouldn’t miss out on the creative tropical cocktails at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto. The Aloha Dinner Show is fun for the whole family and features hula and fire dancing and an authentic tropical feast.

The rooms are the perfect reprieve after a fun-filled day. Expect tropical decor, ultra-comfy beds, and handy extras from coffeemakers to mini-fridges. If you want to go all out, book a stay at one of the coveted luxury bungalows that are perched on stilts over the water!

Check Price & Availability on Hotels.com


9. Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress 

Best Hotels Near Disney World: Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress
Photos: Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress

Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress opened its doors in 1984 as the first luxury hotel in Orlando. The hotel is situated on 1,500 green acres and is just minutes from Disney World. Plus, you’re a short drive from all of the restaurants and shops of Lake Buena Vista and Disney Springs so you’ll have endless entertainment options. 

With its lakeside location, you can spend a fun-filled day kayaking, fishing, or yachting on the lake. The resort also boasts three pools, a cave grotto, multiple walking trails, a fitness center, and a full-service spa. But one of the best amenities of the Grand Cypress is its world-class golf course!

The hotel is home to some excellent bars and restaurants. Order your favorite Starbucks beverage at Market, indulge in a hearty breakfast at the LakeHouse, dine poolside at On the Rocks, and socialize over specialty drinks at The Lobby Bar. Be sure to have at least one dinner at Hemingway’s, where you can pair your massive seafood tower or melt-in-your-mouth filet mignon with the writer’s signature “Papa Doble” cocktail.

You’ll love resting up in the wonderfully appointed rooms. Each room features plush beds, mid-century decor, massive 65-inch flat-screens, and Juliet balconies. If you can swing it, the massive (and super stylish) Bi-Level Suites have incredible living rooms, separate dining areas, and private terraces with beautiful views of the grounds.


10. Waldorf Astoria Orlando

Best Disney Hotels in Orlando, Florida: Waldorf Astoria
Photos: Waldorf Astoria

If you want to stay in a luxury resort, the Waldorf Astoria is one of the best hotels near Disney World. Whether you’re headed to Orlando to visit Disney World or not, the Waldorf Astoria will not disappoint. There are a ton of things to keep you entertained at the hotel and the park is just a stone’s throw away! 

With its 18-hole Rees Jones-designed golf course, the Waldorf Astoria is super popular among golfers. If you just want to kick back and relax, rent a private cabana and spend a day lazing around one of the huge pools! The hotel is also home to a fully outfitted fitness center, a world-class spa, a full-service salon, and two boutique shops.

With 12 bars, restaurants, and lounges, chances are you won’t be able to sample them all during your stay! But you’ll definitely want to make reservations for a steak dinner at the famous Bull & Bear and order up a signature Prosecco Popsicle at the Aquamarine pool bar. 

You’ll love unwinding in the luxurious rooms, which boast plush beds with designer linens, 55-inch TVs, and lavish Italian marble ensuites with separate soaking tubs. At the end of a long day, you can wrap yourself in the ultra-soft bathrobe, pop open a bottle of wine from the wine fridge, and have a relaxing movie night!


11. Ritz-Carlton Orlando

Orlando Hotels Near Disney World: The Ritz-Carlton
Photos: Ritz-Carlton

The Ritz-Carlton is the perfect choice if you’re planning on paying a visit to Disney World but don’t want to stay in a themed hotel. Located in the resort area of Grande Lakes, Disney World is a quick 20-minute drive from the hotel. Plus, there are complimentary shuttles to whisk you to and from “The Most Magical Place on Earth.”

The Ritz-Carlton is also home to yet another 18-hole Greg Norman-designed golf course. There’s also a spectacular pool with luxe private cabanas, a fitness center, a spa, and access to the lazy river and tennis courts at neighboring JW Marriott. With its unique location in the Everglades, you can even go kayaking and fishing in the area’s protected wetlands!

Not only are there 11 bars and restaurants scattered around the grounds but you’ll have access to six additional restaurants next door at JW Marriott. But no stay at the Ritz is complete without having a private dining experience at Norman’s. The globally-inspired 4-course meal is perfect for special celebrations with family and friends!

The luxurious rooms are refreshingly spacious and are outfitted with private balconies, designated workstations, comfy beds, and spectacular ensuites with dual sinks and separate soaking tubs. If you upgrade to a club-level room, you’ll get fun extras, including a private butler and special concierge services. 


12. Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek

Cool Disney Hotels in Orlando, Florida: Wyndham Grand
Photos: Wyndham Grand

Located on 62 lush acres in the Bonnet Creek complex, The Wyndham Grand is one of the best hotels near Disney World. While it’s more low-key than some of Orlando’s sprawling resorts, expect luxury around every corner of this Mediterranean-style hotel. 

Don’t be surprised if you spend most of your time hanging out around the pool deck where you’ll find two pools, two hot tubs, and lavish poolside cabanas. If you want to treat yourself, the Blue Harmony Spa boasts an outdoor terrace and a small pool as well as a menu of pampering treatments. If that’s not enough, you’ll also have access to the complex’s four additional pools, two lazy rivers, and mini-golf course!   

There are three excellent eateries at the hotel. Fill up on a hearty buffet breakfast at Tesoro Cove, enjoy a casual lunch with lake views at the poolside Back Bay Bar and Grill, and dine on southern-inspired seafood fare at Deep Blu Seafood Grille & Sushi! 

Whether you’re spending your days adventuring around Disney World or taking advantage of all the hotel’s amazing amenities, you’ll love relaxing in the luxurious rooms. Get cozy on the comfy bed, catch up with your favorite shows with the 55-inch HDTV, and order up some room service if you feel like staying in!

That’s it – the 12 best hotels near Disney World! Did we miss any cool Disney hotels in Orlando? Comment below so we can add them to the list!


Where to Stay Near Disney World 

Where to Stay Near Disney World: Best Hotels in Orlando, Florida

Most of the best hotels near Disney World are located within the park itself. If this is your first visit to Disney World, this is the best place to base yourself. You’ll likely be able to walk to at least one of the main parks and you’ll be a short bus, boat, or monorail ride from the others.

If you choose to stay in a Disney-owned property, you’ll have access to exclusive Disney-related perks (including early morning and after-hours access to the park). Plus, most of these resorts have cool themes including Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge and Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort!

There are also plenty of excellent hotels clustered around Disney World. These luxurious resorts are a hit with kids and adults alike and feature spectacular amenities – from lazy rivers to award-winning spas to iconic restaurants. Most are no more than 15 minutes from Disney World’s four main parks and offer complimentary shuttles to and from Disney World.

If you plan to visit Disney World but want to explore Orlando, it’s a quick 20-minute drive from the city center to Disney World. Orlando is an ultra-convenient place to base yourself. Not only is getting to the park a breeze but Orlando is home to all sorts of vibrant nightlife venues, excellent eateries, and amazing cultural attractions!


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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most luxurious hotel near Disney World Orlando?

Nestled inside Disney World, in the exclusive Golden Oak neighborhood, Four Seasons is the perfect pick if you want to live in the lap of luxury during your Orlando vacation. It is hands down one of the best hotels near Disney World. Expect stellar service, luxurious rooms and suites, and all sorts of cool amenities! With nine restaurants, bars, and lounges, you’ll never go hungry. If you’re traveling with your little ones, you’ll definitely want to have breakfast with Goofy and his friends at Ravello. And for a special dinner, the rooftop restaurant Capa offers spectacular views of Disney’s fireworks show and specializes in premium Wagyu steaks.

What is the best hotel near Disney World Orlando for animal lovers?

Animal lovers will definitely want to stay at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. Spanning 580 acres, a spectacular wildlife reserve, and four savannas, Animal Kingdom is the largest theme park in the world. Plus, you’ll find over 200 animals roaming the grounds of this one-of-a-kind resort, including giraffes, zebras, and elephants!

What is the coolest hotel near Disney World Orlando?

When it comes to themed resorts, you can’t beat Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. The entire place was designed to give you the experience of staying in a (luxurious) village in the South Seas. Located on the shores of Seven Seas Lagoon, you’ll feel like you’re on a remote tropical island in the South Pacific!

What hotel near Disney World Orlando has the best amenities?

Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress opened its doors in 1984 as the first luxury hotel in Orlando. The hotel is situated on 1,500 green acres and is just minutes from Disney World. With its lakeside location, you can spend a fun-filled day kayaking, fishing, or yachting on the lake. The resort also boasts three pools, a cave grotto, multiple walking trails, a fitness center, and a full-service spa. But one of the best amenities of the Grand Cypress is its world-class golf course!

What hotel near Disney World Orlando is best for foodies?

The Ritz-Carlton is the perfect choice if you’re planning on paying a visit to Disney World but don’t want to stay in a themed hotel. Not only are there 11 bars and restaurants scattered around the grounds but you’ll have access to six additional restaurants next door at JW Marriott. But no stay at the Ritz is complete without having a private dining experience at Norman’s. The globally-inspired 4-course meal is perfect for special celebrations with family and friends!


Author

  • Justine Lopez - Bio Photo

    Justine is a writer and editor who always seems to take the unconventional route in life. She also suffers from a serious case of wanderlust!

    In 2013, she left her hometown in California and set off on a yearlong round-the-world journey with her now-husband – they never looked back. Since then, she’s lived the expat life in Indonesia, Cambodia, China, Vietnam, Mexico, and now Dubai. Along the way, she's written and edited for magazines, newspapers, and websites in Asia and beyond.

    When she's not stoking her wanderlust by working on travel articles for Wandering Wheatleys, Justine is busy caring for her many foster cats in Dubai, seeking out all the delicious vegetarian food, and taking every chance she gets to explore a new corner of the world!

    View all posts Favorite Destinations: Cuba, Indonesia, Italy, Mexico, Vietnam, and so many more! Top Travel Experiences: Backpacking across Cuba before smartphones were a thing, motorbiking to surreal beaches in Bali, kayaking among towering limestone karsts with her mom in Vietnam, unexpectedly swimming with a pod of dolphins in Maui. Local Expertise: USA (California), Southeast Asia (Cambodia, Indonesia, and Vietnam), and the UAE Currently Living in: Dubai, UAE Fun Facts: These days, Justine always has an apartment full of foster rescue kitties; she has to try any Mexican food she comes across in any new city she travels to (it’s often terrible!); she once moved to a Mexican town based off of a photo she saw on Instagram (the food there was incredible!).

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