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Visiting Disneyland in sunny California is a bucket list item for many families visiting the USA.
No doubt when it came to putting the plan for your dream USA trip together, you asked our kids what is the ONE place they wanted to go – I would wager the answer would be Disneyland.
Of course, a trip to Disneyland is one of the most fun things to do in Los Angeles with kids, but it can be incredibly stressful to plan.
Because Disneyland is so big, and incredibly popular, it can be a tough job knowing where to stay to make the most out of your Disney experience.
To help you plan your trip and make sure you remove some planning stress, we have listed the best hotels near Disneyland in California for any type of traveller.
Whether you’re looking for budget places to stay near Disneyland or something more luxurious, we’ve got you covered.
How to Pick The Right Hotel near Disneyland California
Us big kids were pretty excited about visiting Mickey’s house at Disneyland. I mean, it the Happiest Place on Earth after all, and one of the best places to visit in California.
With so many hotels in Anaheim to choose from, it was no easy task selecting the best hotels close to Disneyland because there are many things to consider when visiting Disneyland.
So I figured if I was having trouble deciding on what are the best hotels near Disneyland to stay in, maybe you are too!
So before I introduce you to the best places to stay near Disneyland, lets start with some tips from my Disneyland accommodation research…
Get your Disneyland tickets online via Undercover Tourist, who provide authentic attraction tickets at discounted prices. Buy your e-ticket online so you can go straight to the park entrance:
Purchase a 3-day, 4-day or 5-day ticket which includes one Magic Morning admission. Check prices here.
1. Think about your wider Southern California Vacation
In case you don’t know, Disneyland is in Orange County, not LA, and is one of the top places to visit in Southern California. If you are visiting California from overseas, you might want to see more of Cali’s top cities such as LA, Hollywood, Santa Monica, Huntington Beach etc…
So when you are planning your dream Disneyland vacation, think about what other attractions in LA you want to visit too.
2. Remember parking at Disneyland is expensive!
If you have your own car, or fly into LAX and book a rental car, on average you’re looking at $15 per day to park your car at most Anaheim hotels on top of your accommodation costs.
That adds up and is something to factor into your budget.
Think about looking for a hotel that offers free parking, or check that there is a cheap place to park nearby.
3. Get to Disneyland from your hotel via the ART shuttle
Another option for getting to Disneyland® from your hotel is to ride the ART shuttle (Anaheim Resort Transportation).
This shuttle connects you to the theme parks, hotels, restaurants, and shopping within the Anaheim area.
Service typically begins at 7 AM and continues through midnight.
Hot Tip – my sister said it might be quicker and easier for you to jump on the ART shuttle at a nearby hotel or at a stop on the other side of the street from where you are staying as the shuttle does a kind of loop.
4. Or walk to Disneyland from your hotel
However, your best option for getting from your hotel to Disneyland® could be to walk.
I’ve also been told that by the time you wait for the shuttle, and the time it takes the shuttle to stop off at each hotel and pick up point, you could have walked there by then.
Which leads me to my next point.
5. Think location when choosing your Disneyland accommodation
There is no point choosing your accommodation in Anaheim if it is miles away from Disneyland® and you have to pay extra in transportation costs and waste valuable time.
If possible, you want to stay within walking distance to Disneyland, in a property on or near S Harbor Blvd. You’ll be tired when leaving Disneyland® so the easier it is to get back to your hotel the better.
For those of you that have young kids, you don’t want to be walking too far before you even enter the gates of Disneyland®.
The day is long enough as it is, and being able to retreat back to your hotel for a rest during the day or a swim in your hotel pool to freshen up is desirable for many families visiting Disneyland.
6. Remember, you don’t have to stay at a Disney property
From my research, I’ve discovered that the Anaheim accommodation situation for Disneyland California is different to that of DisneyWorld in Florida.
In Orlando, it seems a big reason for staying onsite at Walt Disney World is for the close proximity to the parks. The non-Disney hotels aren’t as practical location wise.
In Anaheim, many of the off-property hotels next to Disneyland® or close by along S Harbor Blvd are within a 5-20 minute walk to Disneyland and Disney California Adventure Park.
You can also consider a Disneyland vacation rental. We stayed in one located a very short 10 min walk to Disneyland. It was awesome and so much cheaper!
8. Know that Disney accommodation costs vary significantly
Depending on the time of year you visit Disneyland, the size of your traveling party, and the status of your hotel, the price of Anaheim hotels near Disneyland can vary greatly – especially during major holidays and school vacation periods.
Can you visit outside of the peak periods? Hotel prices will be lower, crowds thinner, and you’ll potentially save money on flights and car rental. Win-win!
9. Check what facilities your Disney hotel has
When I look at booking accommodation for my family, there are certain questions I ask so that our stay will be most enjoyable and economical.
Does the Disney hotel have:
- Free breakfast
- Free WiFi
- Free parking
- A shuttle
- Inner-connecting rooms / suites / or family rooms
- Self-catering options
- Laundry facilities
- A pool
- 24-hour reception
All of the above options will vary from hotel to hotel. Decide which features are most important to you for your Disneyland vacation, and which are just perks that are nice to have!
10. What’s the hotel room configuration?
Who are you traveling to Disneyland with? Can you share beds to cut costs per head?
For our family of four, we either require two double beds, or a queen and two singles, or bunk beds, or a suite.
If you have a baby make sure a portable cot is available and for free! Are you traveling with a large family? Can the hotel accommodate more than 4 people per room?
11. Check for family deals on your Disney accommodation
Always ask about discounted family rates, free meals for children, and an upgrade at check in – they can only say no.
Best Hotels Near Disneyland CA
Now you know what to consider when choosing the best place to stay near Disneyland, it’s time to show you the best hotels near Disneyland based on the factors I mentioned above.
Below is my short list of best hotels near Disneyland CA, listed in no particular order.
I’ve broken my research down into three categories of properties:
- 3-star hotels near Disney
- 4-star Disney hotels, Anaheim
- Disney Hotels
3 Star Disneyland Hotels
Let’s start with the best 3-star hotels to stay at Disneyland. You can find cheaper hotels near DL, but they tend to be further away and lack the convenient necessities you need to have an enjoyable trip, so we recommend looking at 3-star options if you are travelling on a budget.
1. Howard Johnson Anaheim Hotel and Water Playground
The iconic Howard Johnson is one of those hotels close to Disneyland that features a private themed water park and outdoor pools, and all rooms come with free wifi.
Distance from Disneyland: 8-minute walk (closer to the gates than two of Disney’s own hotels).
View Matterhorn Mountain, the Disneyland Monorail or watch the fireworks from the comfort of the hotel grounds.
See prices and availability for Howard Johnson at Booking.com
2. Courtyard Anaheim Theme Park Entrance
The Courtyard by Marriott is home to the Surfside Waterpark which features 30-foot water slides, a 400-gallon drench bucket, swimming pool, kids pool, and views of the Disneyland fireworks display.
Select rooms offer twin bunk beds and can accommodate up to six people. WiFi is included.
One of the 3 star hotels within walking distance to Disneyland and your date with Mickey Mouse.
Distance from Disneyland: 5-minute walk.
See prices and availability for The Courtyard by Marriott at Booking.com
3. Springhill Suites by Marriott, Maingate
Springhill Suites features an outdoor pool and hot tub. Choose from a studio or 1 bedroom suite. Suites feature pull-out sofa bed, lounge chair, microwave and mini-fridge, free WiFi and a daily hot breakfast.
One of the hotels with a shuttle to Disneyland for a nominal fee.
Distance from Disneyland: 0.5 miles.
See prices and availability for Springhill Suites at Booking.com
4. Fairfield Inn Resort Anaheim
The Fairfield Inn Anaheim features character-inspired guest rooms and suites with free Wi-Fi. Many rooms are connected, a perfect option for families.
It’s one of the hotels across the street from Disneyland and near the Downtown Disney District. Onsite dining options include Pizza Hut Express, Panera Bread and Seattle’s Best Coffee.
The Fairfield Inn is proud to be a designated Disneyland Good Neighbor hotel.
See prices and availability for The Fairfield Inn with Booking.com
5. Alpine Inn
The Alpine Inn features an outdoor heated swimming pool, a free daily continental breakfast, free wifi, and free parking!
You can choose from a king size room, deluxe double room, or family suite. Rooms come with a microwave and mini-fridge so you can cook up simple snacks, plus a tea and coffee maker. They also have a laundrette on-site.
The best thing about this family-friendly hotel is that it’s within walking distance of Disneyland so you don’t have to worry about having a car.
Distance from Disneyland: 15-minute walk.
See prices and availability for The Alpine Inn at Booking.com
6. Homewood Suites by Hilton Anaheim Resort
The Homewood Suites by Hilton boasts an outdoor pool, a children’s pool, and hot tub. You get a daily free full breakfast and free WiFi.
You can also make use of the resorts shared barbecue facilities and you can even use their fully-equipped kitchen and prepare your own meals – perfect for those travelling on a budget.
For mom and dad, head to the reception in the evenings on Monday-Thursday for free wine or beer.
Distance from Disneyland: 1.1 miles.
See prices and availability for Homewood Suites at Booking.com
7. Best Western Plus Raffles Inn & Suites
The Best Western near Disneyland is a family-oriented hotel close to Disneyland. If you haven’t bought your ticket already, you can pick up Disneyland Theme Park tickets at the front desk.
The rooms have everything you need for a comfortable stay, from free WiFi to a flat-screen TV with video games.
You can also heat up snacks in the microwave, and store picnic lunches in the refrigerator. Some family suites come with bunk beds so you can all stay together in one room.
Features an outdoor pool and hot tub and serves a daily continental breakfast, where you can make your own waffles.
Distance from Disneyland – one mile.
See prices and availability for The Best Western Inn & Suites at Booking.com
8. Sonesta ES Suites Anaheim Resort Area (Formerly Staybridge Suites Anaheim Resort)
Sonesta ES Suites serves a free, breakfast buffet every morning and you can purchase Disneyland tickets at the front desk, avoiding the long lines.
There’s an outdoor pool or all rooms are suites featuring kitchens and free wifi. Mom and dad may also enjoy the on-site fitness center and if you’re staying more than a week, take advantage of the on-site laundrette.
The Anaheim Resort Transit stops by the hotel every 20 minutes for convenient and affordable travel to Disneyland.
Distance from Disneyland: 1.4 miles (30-minute walk)
See prices and availability for Staybridge Suites with Booking.com
4 Star Hotels near Disneyland in the Anaheim Resort Area
If you are looking for something a little more luxurious, then you might find these 4-star hotels near Disneyland right up your alley!
9. Sheraton Park Hotel
The 4-star Sheraton Park Hotel at the Anaheim Resort is the perfect hotel to stay at near Disneyland.
This upper-upscale brand from JW Marriott has plenty to offer families when visiting this theme park area of California: full-service snack shop for packing a picnic lunch for your day of Disney fun, a Steakhouse for dinner, and an outdoor pool.
It has 490 guest rooms and suites, with every one of them having its own private balcony – some with views of the Disneyland Resort and GardenWalk.
You’ll want front row position in the garden to see the Disneyland fireworks lighting up the sky.
- See prices and availability for the Sharaton Park Hotel at Booking.com
10. Hyatt Regency
The Hyatt Regency offers unique kid’s Suites where kids get their own sleep and play space, while you relax in your private bedroom. All rooms have free wifi.
There are 2 outdoor heated pools and a restaurant on site. It has ticket services for Disneyland.
Distance to Disneyland: 1.6 miles (a hotel shuttle is available to the park: $5 per person each day, Children ages 4-10 $2 per person per day.
Parking: $28 per day.
11. Anaheim Marriott
The Anaheim Marriott hotel is located next to Anaheim Convention Center.
It’s one of the best Disneyland hotels because it features a resort-style pool and 4 restaurants including JW’s Steakhouse and Cafe Del Sol which serves fresh California cuisine.
Their Disneyland suites offer Wi-Fi, marble bathrooms, and luxurious bedding.
Distance from Disneyland: 15-minute walk
Parking: $25 per day (there’s an ART stop close by)
See prices and availability for The Anaheim Marriott with Booking.com
12. Doubletree Suites by Hilton
Doubletree Suites is where my sister stayed with her family on their Disneyland holiday. They loved the huge suites for families and that kids eat free at the restaurant.
Oh, and as many free choc chip cookies as you want!
There is free wifi and 3 different restaurants. The hotel also features a rooftop swimming pool offering beautiful views of the surrounding area.
Distance from Disneyland: 30 minute walk (a shuttle service running every 30 minutes is available for a nominal fee)
Parking: $25-$30 per day
Check prices and availability for Doubletree Suites at Booking.com
13. Delta Hotels by Marriott Anaheim Garden Grove (Formerly Wyndham Anaheim Garden Grove)
The Wyndham Garden Grove offers an outdoor pool and on-site restaurant. Room options include standard room, executive and family suites for added space and amenities.
For one low daily hospitality fee you can take advantage of Wi-Fi Internet access, unlimited Disneyland shuttle service, and self-parking, fitness center and outdoor swimming pool.
Distance from Disneyland – 1.9 miles.
See prices and availability for The Wyndham Garden Grove at Booking.com
Disney Hotels
If you want the 24/7 Disney experience and to be surrounded by the Disney magic at every turn and with every little detail, then staying at a Disney property could be for you.
Or, maybe your time spent at Disneyland and California Adventure Park in Anaheim California during the day is enough and you want to escape everything Disney and stay off-site at a more low-key property.
From what I understand from my research, the only Disney Hotel in Anaheim that is actually “on-site” within the theme park is the Grand Californian Hotel & Spa.
Disney’s two other properties, the Paradise Pier Hotel and Disneyland Hotel are a little further away than some of the non-Disney properties.
Confused much?
Of course, it generally comes down to your budget and availability at the properties. With only three Disney Hotel Resort hotels to choose from availability will not always be there, especially during peak times.
And I think it’s safe to say the three Disneyland Resort Hotels would be considered “luxury” and I image the total of your stay plus park ticket can end up pricey.
However, as we say time and again on our blog, we’re all about accumulating moments and memories over possessions, so if this is your once-in-a-lifetime dream vacation you’ll find a way to make it happen.
Some of the benefits of staying at a Disneyland Resort Hotel:
- Extra Magic Hour – book and stay at a Disneyland Resort Hotel and enjoy admission to select attractions, stores, entertainment and dining locations in Disneyland Park or Disney California Adventure Park for one full hour before the parks open to the general public on select days (must have a valid theme park ticket).
- Easy Access – each park has separate gate entrances for the Extra Magic Hour guests.
- Park View Room – stay in one of these rooms and you’ll receive a view of one of the parks, especially handy for the night time fireworks.
- Disney-Themed Pools with Waterslides.
- Themed restaurants and Character Dining
- Signature Suites with special Disneyland Park themes and décor.
- Location – it’s a relatively short walk to the gates.
Below are the three Disney properties, listed in no particular order. Click on each photo or link for full descriptions of each property at their official Disney websites.
I would love to hear your feedback in the comments at the bottom of this post about any of these Disney properties. Which one is best? Are they worth the cost?
14. Disneyland Hotel
The best hotel to stay at in Disneyland is for sure the official Disneyland Hotel.
At the Disneyland Hotel, you can stay in either the Adventure, Fantasy or Frontier tower and be located just steps from the Downtown Disney District and a short stroll to both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park.
As you might expect from a hotel in Disneyland, the decor is all Disney-themed and you have Disney music playing from the moment you enter the lobby.
It can be a bit over-the-top, so consider how much Disney magic you can take before deciding.
15. Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
The Grand Californian Hotel & Spa has its own entrance to Disney California Adventure Park and is the only on-site hotel of the three.
16. Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel
The Paradise Pier Hotel is a boardwalk-themed resort across a palm-lined boulevard from the Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. It’s a 5-minute walk to Downtown Disney shopping and a 15-minute walk to Disneyland front gate.
Map of The Best Places to Stay near Disneyland
To make choosing the best hotel to stay at near Disneyland easier, here is a map of each of the hotels mentioned in this guide so you can see their proximity to Disneyland.
Disneyland California Video
Want to see what you’re getting yourself in for? Check out our video playlist of our experience at Disneyland California!
Final Thoughts on Hotels near Disneyland
So there you have it, those are the best places to stay near Disneyland, and as you can see, there’s a lot of great options to choose from that are within walking distance of the theme park.
We hope this guide helped you plan your Disney trip and gave you some inspiration for places to stay.
Before you go, be sure to check out these Star Wars Land tips from Disney expert, Leslie. We visited before the new Star Wars Land opened, but these tips are quite comprehensive.
And if you’re wondering about what to eat at Disney, check out these tips on the best Disneyland character meals for your family.
So, what do you say?
Have you stayed at any of these hotels near Disneyland? Can you recommend any other places to stay near Disneyland? Let us know in the comments!
More Disney Inspiration
Are you looking for more ideas and inspiration for your Disney trip? Then you may like these other guides!
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Share any tips or insights on Disneyland accommodation near Anaheim or visiting the theme parks in the comments section below!
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