The 12 Best Hotels Near Disney World and Universal Orlando

The 12 Best Hotels Near Disney World and Universal Orlando

If you’re looking for a hotel close to Disney World Orlando, and Universal Orlando Resort, then we have the list for you. While we almost always recommend staying on property at Disney World, and Universal, if you’re visiting Orlando, Florida to take in more than the house of mouse, there are other options. From budget hotels close to Disney World in Florida, to hotels with free shuttles to Disney parks, here is the list of all the Best Hotels near Walt Disney World, and Universal Studios at every price point. 

Resort Fees, Parking Fees, Shuttles, Free Breakfast, and even Mickey and Minnie appearances are sometimes available at the hotels in Orlando close to Disney World. And while rates and services may change throughout the year, we’re here to share the hotels close to Walt Disney World to consider for your next vacation. Whether you’re planning a trip that includes the Wizarding World of Harry Potter or Universal Studios, or just trip to Disney Springs, these hotels near Disney World can get you close to the action. Let’s jump in. 

Hotels Close to Disney and Universal Orlando

We’ve curated this list for anyone heading to Disney World, in search of options. Perhaps you’re looking for a cheap hotel in Orlando near Disney World. Or maybe you just need a Map of Hotels Near Walt Disney World so you can pick your favorite hotel from the lineup. Whatever you’re searching, we’ll be sure to add price range, shuttle access, freebies, perks and anything else you need to know for the hotels on this list. And if you want to dive right into booking, you can do that do. Just check out The Top 10 Best Hotels Near Walt Disney World to get started. 

Nevertheless, keep in mind that in addition to the price ranges and rates shared below that a 12.5% tax is additional on most fees. 

Hilton Orlando Buena Vista Palace

The Hilton Orlando Buena Vista Palace is one of the better options for a Disney Hotel off-property. As a result you get loads of Disney Good Neighbor Hotel Perks as part of your stay. As a hotel within walking distance of Disney Springs if you’re looking to get access to a free Disney shuttle, Early Entry at Disney Parks and some rooms even overlooking Disney World, with views of the fireworks! 

  • Location: 1900 East Buena Vista Drive, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
  • Distance from Airport: 25 minutes from Orlando International Airport. 
  • Distance from Disney Parks: 4.8 miles
  • Distance from Universal Orlando: 10 miles
  • Parking: Self-Parking $25 / night, Valet $35/ night
  • Transportation: Free Shuttle to Theme Parks
  • Resort Fees: $39/night
  • Room Rates: $140- $600 / night 
  • Amenities: Includes Early Entry at Disney World, and continuous shuttle transportation to the parks. Grab n Go market, Internet access included in resort fee. Winding float lagoon and 2 large pools. Fitness center. 

We best like the Hilton Orlando Buena Vista Palace for it’s easy vibe and float lagoon. Therefore, if you’re a family visiting Disney World Orlando and don’t want to pay extra for the water parks, this hotel close to Disney is a great option. 

Drury Plaza Hotel Orlando Disney Springs

Located just a half mile from Disney Springs, the Drury Plaza Hotel Orlando Disney Springs is a great option if you’re looking for a centrally located hotel. Additionally, offering an atmosphere that’s pet friendly, with no resort fee, and evening snacks, makes this a great choice. Similarly, as the only hotel on this list with FREE Hot Breakfast, there is plenty to enjoy at this Orlando hotel. Finally, remember too that family suites are an option here too, allowing you to spread out. As one of the newer hotels in the area, the Drury is quickly becoming the best hotel near Disney.  

  • Location: 2000 Hotel Plaza Blvd, Lake Buena Vista, Orlando, FL 32830, United States of America
  • Distance from Airport: 22 minutes
  • Distance from Disney Parks: 6.7 miles
  • Distance from Universal Orlando: 9 miles
  • Parking: $25 / night
  • Transportation: Free Shuttle to Disney Theme Parks, 
  • Resort Fees: None
  • Room Rates: $140- $310 / night
  • Amenities: Family rooms, arcade, a resort style saltwater pool, on site dining options, wi-fi, within walking distance of Disney Springs

Holiday Inn Orlando – Disney Springs® Area

Need a Cheap Hotel Near Disney World? This family friendly IHG hotel at Disney Springs starts at just $80 per night and includes a variety of dining options with a Kids Eat Free deal. Plus, Early Theme Park Entry at Disney Parks, and a 10 minute walk to Disney Springs, make Holiday Inn Orlando – Disney Springs® Area a budget-friendly Disney World Good Neighbor Hotel. Additionally, since it’s centrally located, this hotel is a perfect option if you’re also visiting Universal Studios. 

  • Location: 1805 Hotel Plaza Boulevard, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830 United States
  • Distance from Airport: 21 minutes from Orlando International Airport
  • Distance from Disney Parks: 6.8 miles
  • Distance from Universal Orlando: 9.1 miles
  • Parking: Self-Parking $20/ night, Valet Parking $28 / night, Oversized $ $40/ night
  • Transportation: Free Shuttle to Disney Parks, Hourly. This is a Hotel within walking distance of Disney Springs, average 7-10 minute walk. 
  • Resort Fees: $38 / per night
  • Room Rates: $80-$150/ night
  • Amenities: Pools, On Property Restaurants, Wi-Fi, Shuttles to Disney Parks, Fitness Center. 

Holiday Inn Lake Buena Vista 

Another great hotel for families going to Disney World is the Holiday Inn Lake Buena Vista Orlando. This IHG hotel can help you rack up your loyalty points for a free night, and offers a Kids Eat Free deal for 2 children 11 and under at the on site restaurant. Basically, with a variety of room options, and as a close hotel to Disney World, the Holiday Inn offers everything you need for a more stress free Disney vacation. 

  • Location: 13351 State Road 535 Orlando, Florida 32821 
  • Distance from Airport: 24 minutes from Orlando International Airport
  • Distance from Disney Parks: 1 mile
  • Distance from Universal Orlando: 12 miles
  • Parking: Self-Parking Included in Resort Fee
  • Transportation: Free Shuttle to Theme Parks
  • Resort Fees: $30/ night
  • Room Rates: $80- $150/ night
  • Amenities: Arcade, Gym, Restaurants, Laundry, Free Wi-Fi, Kid’s Eat Free at onsite Applebees Restaurant. 

Doubletree Suites by Hilton Orlando Disney Springs

As one of the best hotels near Disney Springs, the Doubletree Suites by Hilton Orlando offers a free breakfast when you book directly online. And since this hotel is also within walking distance of Disney Springs, there are ample restaurants and shopping opportunities available. Furthermore, as a Disney World Good Neighbor Hotel guests also get access to perks like Early Theme Park Entry as well. 

  • Location: 2305 Hotel Plaza Boulevard, Orlando, FL 32830
  • Distance from Airport: 30 minutes from Orlando International Airport
  • Distance from Disney Parks: 1 mile
  • Distance from Universal Orlando: 7.2 miles
  • Parking: $25/ per day
  • Transportation: Free Shuttle to Theme Parks
  • Resort Fees: $25.88/ night
  • Room Rates: $130- $230/ night
  • Amenities: A Warm Cookie welcome, complimentary coffee,  Gym, Restaurants, Laundry, Free Wi-Fi, Early Entry at Disney Parks.

All rooms at Doubletree are suites with one or two bedrooms, and is a wonderful option for travelers needing more room. The hotel also has Disney ticket sales available, for any last minute booking needs. The restaurant onsite EverGreen Café serves breakfast from 7am – 10am and is $18/adults and $9/children 12 and under. Kids Eat FREE with adult breakfast purchase (one child per adult). 

Four Seasons Resort Walt Disney World

Located actually inside the Walt Disney World resort property, the Four Seasons Resort Walt Disney World offers a Good Morning Breakfast with Goofy and His Pals on select days. Home to the family-friendly waterpark, Explorer Island, this luxurious hotel near Disney is perfect if you’re looking for something special. Especially, if you’re planning to spend time at your resort as well as the parks. Additionally, as one of the only Orlando hotels without a resort fee, it’s worth a look if you want something luxurious. 

    • Location: 10100 Dream Tree Boulevard, Orlando, FL 32836
    • Distance from Airport: 28 minutes from Orlando International Airport
    • Distance from Disney Parks: 5 miles
    • Distance from Universal Orlando: 14 miles
    • Parking: Valet Parking only $30 /night
    • Transportation: Complimentary motor coach shuttle to Disney Parks
  • Resort Fees: None
  • Room Rates: $890-$1300 /night
  • Amenities: Early Park Entry, Ravello restaurant, wi-fi included, lazy river, spa, tennis courts, and 3 pools. 

JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa

Just 5 miles from Disney Springs, as an Orlando hotel close to Disney World, the JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa offers a luxurious Disney hotel experience.  Offering 6 restaurants on property, a spa, bar and park view suites. Furthermore, you can even play a round of mini golf at this resort, or even try out the wellness class. A truly upscale Orlando resort experience. 

  • Location: 14900 Chelonia Parkway, Lake Buena Vista, Orlando, 32821
  • Distance from Airport: 25 minutes to the Orlando International Airport
  • Distance from Disney Parks: 5.3 miles
  • Distance from Universal Orlando: 13 miles
  • Parking: Self Parking $36/daily, Valet $52/ daily
  • Transportation: Shuttle to Disney Parks available for reservation, included in Resort Fee
  • Resort Fees: $45/ night
  • Room Rates: $350- $530/ night
  • Amenities: Shuttle service, wi-fi, mini garden golf, and a daily wellness class are all included in the amenities here. 

Waldorf Astoria Orlando

An official Disney World hotel, staying at the Waldorf Astoria Orlando means you get access to Early Entry at Disney Parks, access to Disney Tickets at the hotel, and views of the fireworks from some rooms. Guests also get access to the pools and lazy river at the Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek hotel. While the Waldorf Astoria offers a variety of perks, for adult couples we most like the Golf Club access, and spa treatment deals. Additionally, if you’re heading to the parks, you can take advantage of 60 day Advanced Disney Dining Reservations.

  • Location: 14200 Bonnet Creek Resort Lane, Orlando, FL 32821
  • Distance from Airport: 25 minutes from Orlando International Airport
  • Distance from Disney Parks: 5.5 miles
  • Distance from Universal Orlando: 13. 2 miles 
  • Parking: Valet parking only, $52/ per day
  • Transportation: Free Shuttle to Theme Parks
  • Resort Fees: $50/ night
  • Room Rates: $250-$880/ night
  • Amenities: Included in the resort fee is free wi-fi, 2 bottles of water each day, shuttle service to Disney parks, 20% off spa treatments, and access to the Golf Club practice facilities. 

Walt Disney World Swan Reserve

Marriott Bonvoy Hotels Near Disney World

Generally, if you’re a member of any hotel loyalty programs, you know how important it is to choose the hotels that earn you point and Free Nights! And if you’re a Marriott Bonvoy Rewards member you know that those points can add up fast! Be sure to check out our Marriott Bonvoy Hotels near Walt Disney World post for all the hotels to consider on your next trip! While we most like the Swan Reserve, Swan Hotel and Dolphin Hotel to take advantage of Disney perks while earning our points, there are many to choose from! Meanwhile, take a look at the post for all our favorites.  

Disney Walking PAths Dolphin Resort

Swan Reserve and Swan and Dolphin Hotels

By far one of our favorite Disney Resort areas at Disney World, the Swan and Dolphin Resorts, consist of the Swan, the Dolphin and the Swan Reserve. Overall, each hotel has it’s own unique look and feel, on site restaurants and amenities. However, one of the biggest perks of staying at these Marriott Bonvoy Hotels close to Disney World, is that you can share the amenities across the properties. As a result, you get pool, and beach access at all the resorts. Additionally these resorts are located on the Disney BoardWalk, close to the Fantasia Gardens Disney Mini Golf Course, and are some of the hotels within walking distance of Disney Parks, there’s a lot to love about these hotels. 

Disney Boardwalk Area Hotels

The Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel, is known for it’s strong triangular architectural style, and dolphin sculptures while the Walt Disney World Swan Hotel takes a softer shape, featuring Swans. However, the Walt Disney World Swan Reserve skips the animal references altogether, and sticks to a modern, clean look with large glass windows overlooking the Disney BoardWalk. All three of these resorts are within the same walkable area, so we’ve collected the info together, for ease. Particularly of interest is that we can often find these hotels at a discount on hotels.com! And have loved every time we’ve stayed at these  resorts. 

  • Location: Disney BoardWalk Area
  • Distance from Airport: 20 minutes from the Orlando International Airport
  • Distance from Disney Parks: Walking Distance of Epcot and Hollywood Studios
  • Distance from Universal Orlando: 13.2 miles
  • Parking: Self-Parking $34 / day, Valet Parking $ 44 / day. 
  • Transportation: Disney Bus Transportation to Parks
  • Resort Fees: $40 / night per 2 guests, $35 per each additional person 
  • Room Rates: $189-$500 / night
  • Amenities: Sand beach, outdoor play activities, on site restaurants, walking distance of Disney BoardWalk, and access to the Disney Friendship boats. Resort fee includes wi-fi and swan paddleboat rentals. 
  • Book:

Meliá Orlando Celebration

If you’re traveling to Disney with more than 4 people, with a group, or just need somewhere that has a suite and kitchen options then check out Melia Orlando Celebration. This Disney Good Neighbor Hotel is located just three miles away from Disney World, generally making this budget hotel in Orlando is a convenient place to stay. 

  • Location: 225 Celebration Place, Orlando, 34747 United States
  • Distance from Airport:
  • Distance from Disney Parks: 2.8 miles 
  • Distance from Universal Orlando: 12 miles
  • Parking: Self-Parking Included in Resort Fee
  • Transportation: Free Shuttle to Theme Parks
  • Resort Fees: $36.32/ night
  • Room Rates: $70-$225/ night
  • Amenities: Dog Friendly, Gym, Restaurants, Laundry, Free Wi-Fi, Electric Vehicle Charging Point

While it doesn’t come with any Disney perks, it does come with a gym, bike rental, pool, and restaurants on property. Family suites sleep up to seven and are great if you’re traveling to Disney with a Group. We choose this Orlando hotel close to Disney simply because it’s a great price, offers lots of amenities and is a 4 star resort. Read the Melia Orlando Celebration Reviews. 

Living area

Vacation Homes Near Disney World

If you’re a family vacationing at Disney World, or heading to Disney with a large group, you may feel more comfortable with a house to call your own. Complete with places for the kids toys, pets and a car. If this is the case, then consider looking at booking Vacation Homes Near Walt Disney World instead. While you wouldn’t get the perks like Disney Early Theme Park Entry or Extended Evening Hours, you would be able to have a little bit more freedom. Check out Disney VRBO homes with indoor pools, or a Disney Vacation Home smack dab in the middle of the parks. 

We most like renting Orlando Vacation Homes for a Disney trip, when we know we’ll be heading to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, or Sea World. With the ability to find a vacation home centrally located to the parks you’ll be visiting, you have a better chance of staying out of traffic and having some place quiet and calm to return to when the day is done. 

Disney Swan and Dolphin

Disney Hotels Near Disney Parks

If you’re  looking for Disney World Resorts Within Walking Distance of the Parks, know that almost all of them are official Disney Resorts, at  the Deluxe Disney Resort Category Level. As such, you can expect to spend a pretty penny on any of the hotels closest to Disney World. We’ll share a few options in each of the main areas. Disney Skyliner Resorts, BoardWalk Resorts, and Monorail Resorts, get you close to the action with easy transportaiton options. But, what other options do you have? Here are the hotels near Disney World that will get you closest. 

Grand Floridian Sugar Loaf Building

Hotels Near Magic Kingdom Park

Magic Kingdom Park is the most popular park at Disney World. Offering the most rides, shows, parades and games, Magic Kingdom is typically a two day park, at least. As such, if visiting this park frequently is on your list for your Disney Vacation, here are some Hotels Near Magic Kingdom Park to consider. 

With Monorail Access that leads to the front gates of Magic Kingdom, the Disney Monorail Resorts are by far the BEST Hotels Near Magic Kingdom. Each with their own theme, amenities, and perks, here’s the breakdown of what you can find at each. 

Disney’s Contemporary Resort

A fan favorite of many, the Disney’s Contemporary Resort Review features a brutalist architecture style, and a 5 minute walking path that leads to the Magic Kingdom. As the closest hotel to Magic Kingdom, the Contemporary Resort is often expensive in the Disney Deluxe Resort category. While we were not impressed with this resort ( Read the review in the link above!) if location is your priority, then this may be for you. 

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort

As Disney World’s most iconic resort, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort Review at Walt Disney World takes cues from the California seaside hotels of old. With Victorian elements, sprawling beaches, and a walking path that leads to the front of Magic Kingdom, this resort is a great choice if money isn’t an issue. As Disney’s most expensive hotel, the Grand Floridian Resort offers an elegant experience and a convenient location to Magic Kingdom. 

Disney Polynesian Resort Walt Disney World

Disney’s Polynesian Resort 

As one of Disney’s original resorts, the Disney’s Polynesian Resort at Walt Disney World offers a South Pacific Island experience and beaches for lounging. One of our most favorite resorts, the Polynesian takes it’s place among the Disney Deluxe Resorts, and is pricey! However, you can hop the monorail and be at Magic Kingdom in less than 10 minutes. Making it one of the most sought after locations on Disney property. 

Disney Wilderness Resorts

Last but not least the second set of Hotels Near Disney World Magic Kingdom are the Wilderness Resorts. Accessible by boat, these two resorts are within close proximity to the front gates, just near the lagoon. The Disney Fort Wilderness RV Campground and Disney’s Wilderness Lodge offer stark price and amenities differences. But, if a hotel close to Magic Kingdom is your priority then hear us out! These two resorts are surrounded by nature and offer boat transportation to Magic Kingdom, keeping you off the monorail and out of bus lines. Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort offers Club Level at Disney, pools, outdoor bar areas, Disney character dining, and sprawling grounds.

While, Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground offers campsites, RV sites and cabins, amidst winding natural trails and camping loops at Disney’s largest resort. Spanning the budget, you can grab a campsite for $100 a night, and sometimes less. Or a Fort Wilderness Cabin, at the Deluxe level, for an average of $350/ night. 

Beaches at the Beach Club Disney World

Hotels Near EPCOT Park

Planning a Disney Vacation with the purpose of visiting EPCOT for the festivals is always a good idea. So, if you’re looking for the Disney Resorts Near EPCOT we recommend staying at the Disney BoardWalk Resorts. Also, these resorts are Disney Deluxe Resorts, but are within walking distance of the International Gateway at the back of EPCOT park. They are the closest hotels to Disney Epcot park, and offer so much convenience that you might be wondering why you haven’t stayed here before! 

Disney Springs

Hotels Near Disney Springs

If you’re looking for Disney Orlando Hotels, then the Disney Springs area resorts are your best bet! While you can find a slew of Disney World Hotels within Walking Distance of Disney Springs, the location makes this a great place to grab a cheap hotel in Orlando, that can get you close to the action. These are hotels close to Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Hotels Near Disney Springs Orlando. Meaning you can get the best of both worlds. Plus, if you’re in this area, you can also take advantage of free live music in the evenings at Disney Springs, on the weekends. The Fantasia Gardens Disney Mini Golf Course nearby, and the Disney Boardwalk, which is Free to visit! 

Renting an RV for Walt Disney World

RV Camping Near Disney World

Hotels Near Disney World don’t have to be expensive! Therefore, we always recommend considering Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort if you’re trying to stay on a budget. Fort Wilderness has a variety of stay options including campsites, RV sites and Cabins. If you’re hoping to Rent an RV at Disney World, check out our RV Rental at Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground Disney World for all the details. Easier and cheaper than you think, RV rental at Fort Wilderness is a great way to still be close to the magic, while taking it easy in nature. If you’re a family looking to spread out with playgrounds and beached, or a dog owner that needs a dog park, Fort Wilderness has it all. 

Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground

Best Hotels Near Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort

There you have it! Our roundup of all the Best Hotels Near Disney World Orlando and Universal Resort in Florida. Interestingly, while putting this list together, we’ve found even more new hotels to try! As always we recommend trying third party sites to get the best deals on Orlando Hotels. Booking.com, Hotels.com and TripAdvisor.com are all great places to check out during your hotel research for your next vacation. Additionally, if you’re used to booking directly, check out our Tips on Booking Disney Hotels with a Third Party, so that you can be sure to attach your Disney perks, like Early Entry and more in the My Disney Experience App. 

Best Hotels near disney world

Co-Founder and Director at Polka Dot Pixie Co LLC | Website

Rochelle Mariah is a writer, designer and photographer with an MLIS in Information Science and a B.S. in Arch and Design. Determined to make Planning a DIY Disney Vacation easier she makes lots of lists and drinks lots of coffee. When not designing apparel at Polka Dot Pixie Shop, she's watching old movies and planning the holidays. She has been traveling to Disney destinations since 2010.