You've decided to take a trip to Walt Disney World, and now it's time to decide where to stay. With dozens of Disney Resort hotels and plenty of other options around Orlando, you'll have plenty of choices.
One of the first decisions is whether to stay at a Disney-owned resort or book an off-property hotel or vacation rental.
Both have their advantages, and the differences go well beyond the nightly room rate. Here's what to consider.
Why Stay at a Disney Resort?
For many families, it’s all about convenience.
Disney Resort hotels offer complimentary transportation to the theme parks and Disney Springs. Depending on your resort, you might travel by bus, boat, monorail, or Disney Skyliner.
That means no driving to the parks. No theme park parking fees. It also makes it easier to return to your hotel for an afternoon break. (Which we strongly encourage, especially if you have littles!)
Of course, not all Disney resorts are equally convenient. Staying along the monorail or Skyliner routes offers a different experience than staying at a resort that relies primarily on buses.
What About the Extra Disney Resort Benefits?
Disney Resort guests receive 30 minutes of Early Theme Park Entry at all four theme parks. That extra time can help you experience popular attractions before the regular crowds arrive.
Guests staying at Disney Deluxe Resorts and Deluxe Villa Resorts also receive Extended Evening Theme Park Hours on select nights.
And, when it comes to purchasing Lightning Lanes, eligible Disney Resort guests can buy passes and make selections seven days before their stay, compared with three days for most off-site guests.
These benefits can make a noticeable difference, particularly during busier travel periods.
Why Consider Staying Off-Site?
Off-site accommodations can be a great option, especially for larger families or groups traveling together.
Orlando offers everything from traditional hotels to vacation homes with multiple bedrooms, full kitchens, and private pools.
Disney also offers spacious accommodations, including Deluxe Villas with up to three bedrooms. However, these larger villas can be limited in availability, particularly during popular travel periods.
For families traveling with grandparents, extended family, or friends, an off-site vacation rental may offer more choices in space, sleeping arrangements, and price.
Some off-site hotels also offer complimentary breakfast, kitchenettes, and other amenities that can help keep vacation costs down.
And if you're planning to visit Universal Orlando or other Central Florida attractions, staying off-site may be more convenient for your family.
Don't Forget Transportation Costs
An off-site hotel with a lower nightly rate isn't necessarily the less expensive option.
Some properties offer complimentary theme park shuttles, but schedules may be limited. Others require you to arrange your own transportation.
If you need a rental car, factor in rental fees and gas, plus hotel parking and theme park parking. Rideshare expenses can add up, too.
On the other hand, if you're driving to Orlando and already have a vehicle, staying off-site may still save you a lot.
It's worth comparing the total cost of your vacation rather than the hotel rate alone.
Is Staying at Disney World Worth the Extra Money?
If you plan to spend most of your vacation in Disney's theme parks, staying on-site can be worth it.
Disney offers Value, Moderate, and Deluxe resorts, so you can find accommodations at several price points. Your Let’s Talk Travel agent will help by keeping an eye out for Disney discounts.
But if you need multiple bedrooms, prefer having a kitchen, or plan to explore more of Orlando or are even planning a spur-of-the-moment trip, staying off-site might be the better fit.
There's also a middle ground. Certain hotels near Disney Springs and other select properties (Good Neighbor hotels) offer some Disney guest benefits without being Disney-owned. Those benefits vary, so they're worth considering when comparing accommodations. Ask your agent about those when the time comes.
So, Where Should You Stay?
Think about how you'll spend your vacation. Will you visit Disney parks every day? Do you want the convenience of returning to your room for afternoon breaks? Will you have a car? How much space does your family need?
A hotel that's ideal for a couple spending four days in the parks may not work nearly as well for a family of six staying an entire week.
Planning a Walt Disney World vacation? Our travel advisors can help you compare Disney Resort hotels, nearby accommodations, and vacation packages to find the right fit for your family, your schedule, and your budget. Let us help you plan a Magical vacation that fits your family!
