Best Family-Friendly Hotels Near Disney World in Orlando

Planning a family trip to Disney World in Orlando is an exciting endeavor! However, finding the perfect accommodation that caters to both adults and children can feel overwhelming. This comprehensive guide highlights some of the best family-friendly hotels near Disney World, ensuring a magical and stress-free vacation.

Why Stay Near Disney World?

While staying on Disney property has its perks, hotels in the surrounding areas offer several advantages. These often include more spacious accommodations, larger pools, and sometimes, more budget-friendly options. Many off-site hotels also provide complimentary shuttle services to the parks, making transportation convenient.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hotel

Before diving into specific hotel recommendations, consider these important factors:

• Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend on accommodation. Options range from value resorts to luxurious villas.
• Proximity to Parks: Decide how close you want to be to Disney World. Shorter travel times mean more time enjoying the parks.
• Amenities: Consider amenities such as pools, water parks, kids’ clubs, and on-site dining.
• Room Size and Layout: Ensure the room is large enough to comfortably accommodate your family. Look for suites or connecting rooms if needed.
• Transportation: Check if the hotel offers complimentary shuttle services to Disney World and other attractions.
• Dining Options: On-site dining can be convenient, especially with children. Check if the hotel has restaurants that cater to different tastes.
• Reviews and Ratings: Read reviews from other families to get an idea of the hotel’s overall quality and suitability.

Top Family-Friendly Hotels Near Disney World

Here are some of the best family-friendly hotels near Disney World, categorized for your convenience:

Value Options: Affordable Fun for the Whole Family

All-Star Movies Resort

As a Disney Value Resort, All-Star Movies offers a fantastic, budget-friendly option for families. The themed rooms and larger-than-life movie characters create a fun and immersive experience. The resort features two pools, a food court, and complimentary transportation to all Disney parks and Disney Springs.

Pros: Affordable, themed rooms, Disney perks (Early Theme Park Entry, complimentary transportation).

Cons: Can be crowded, limited dining options compared to deluxe resorts.

All-Star Music Resort

Similar to All-Star Movies, All-Star Music is another excellent value resort. This resort celebrates different genres of music and features family suites that can comfortably accommodate larger families. Enjoy themed pools, a food court, and the same Disney perks as other Disney resorts.

Pros: Affordable, family suites available, themed pools, Disney perks.

Cons: Can be noisy, food court can be busy.

Art of Animation Resort

Art of Animation is a step up from the All-Star Resorts, offering more themed immersion and family suites. The Finding Nemo and Cars suites are particularly popular with families. The resort features a large pool, a splash pad, and a food court with diverse options. It also offers Disney Skyliner access to Epcot and Hollywood Studios.

Pros: Immersive theming, family suites, Disney Skyliner access, large pool.

Cons: More expensive than All-Star Resorts, can be crowded.

Pop Century Resort

Pop Century celebrates the pop culture of the 1950s through the 1990s. This resort is another great value option with newly renovated rooms and Disney Skyliner access. It features three pools, a food court, and complimentary transportation to Disney parks and Disney Springs.

Pros: Affordable, renovated rooms, Disney Skyliner access, multiple pools.

Cons: Can be noisy, food court offers limited variety.

Rosen Inn International

Located on International Drive, Rosen Inn International is a great option for budget-conscious families who want to be close to the parks and other Orlando attractions. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, several pools, and complimentary shuttle service to select theme parks. While it lacks the immersive theming of Disney resorts, it provides excellent value for money.

Pros: Affordable, close to attractions, multiple pools, complimentary shuttle.

Cons: Basic amenities, no Disney theming.

Mid-Range Options: Comfort and Convenience

Caribe Royale Orlando

Caribe Royale Orlando is an all-suite resort offering spacious accommodations, making it ideal for families. The resort features multiple pools, a splash pad, a lazy river, and several on-site dining options. Complimentary transportation to Disney World is also provided.

Pros: Spacious suites, multiple pools and water features, on-site dining, complimentary transportation.

Cons: Can be expensive during peak season, resort fee applies.

Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Resort Disney Springs Resort Area

This resort is located in the Disney Springs Resort Area, offering convenient access to shopping, dining, and entertainment. The Wyndham Lake Buena Vista features two pools, a splash pad, a playground, and on-site dining options. Guests also enjoy Disney perks such as Early Theme Park Entry and complimentary transportation to the parks.

Pros: Convenient location near Disney Springs, Disney perks, multiple pools, on-site dining.

Cons: Can be noisy due to its location, resort fee applies.

Holiday Inn Resort Orlando Suites – Waterpark

This hotel is a great choice for families who love water parks. It features a large water park with slides, splash pads, and a lazy river. The hotel also offers spacious suites, on-site dining options, and complimentary transportation to Disney World.

Pros: On-site water park, spacious suites, complimentary transportation, multiple dining options.

Cons: Can be crowded, resort fee applies.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista South

Embassy Suites offers spacious two-room suites, perfect for families. The hotel includes a complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast each morning and a nightly evening reception with drinks and snacks. It also features a pool, a fitness center, and complimentary transportation to Disney World.

Pros: Spacious suites, complimentary breakfast and evening reception, complimentary transportation.

Cons: Can be expensive during peak season, limited on-site dining options.

DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Orlando at Disney Springs

Another great option located in the Disney Springs Resort Area, DoubleTree Suites offers spacious suites and comfortable accommodations. Guests enjoy Disney perks, multiple pools, and easy access to Disney Springs. The hotel also offers complimentary transportation to the parks.

Pros: Spacious suites, convenient location near Disney Springs, Disney perks, multiple pools.

Cons: Can be noisy, resort fee applies.

Luxury Options: Unforgettable Experiences

Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort

The Four Seasons Resort Orlando offers a luxurious and unforgettable experience for families. The resort features a five-acre water park with slides, a lazy river, and multiple pools. It also offers world-class dining, a spa, and a kids’ club. Guests enjoy complimentary transportation to Disney World and access to Disney planning services.

Pros: Luxurious accommodations, exceptional amenities, on-site water park, Disney planning services.

Cons: Very expensive, may not be suitable for budget-conscious families.

Waldorf Astoria Orlando

Located adjacent to Disney World, the Waldorf Astoria Orlando offers a luxurious retreat with exceptional service and amenities. The resort features a championship golf course, multiple pools, a spa, and several on-site dining options. Guests enjoy complimentary transportation to Disney World and access to Disney planning services.

Pros: Luxurious accommodations, championship golf course, exceptional dining, Disney planning services.

Cons: Expensive, resort fee applies.

Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes

The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes offers a luxurious escape with a focus on nature and outdoor activities. The resort features a championship golf course, a lazy river, multiple pools, and a spa. Guests can enjoy kayaking, fishing, and other outdoor activities on the resort’s expansive grounds. Complimentary transportation to Disney World is available.

Pros: Luxurious accommodations, outdoor activities, championship golf course, multiple pools.

Cons: Expensive, may not be ideal for families primarily focused on theme parks.

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

If you’re looking for a truly magical Disney experience, consider Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. This luxurious resort offers elegant accommodations, world-class dining, and stunning views of the Magic Kingdom. Guests enjoy access to multiple pools, a spa, and Disney perks such as extended evening hours (for guests staying in Deluxe Resorts) and complimentary transportation.

Pros: Luxurious accommodations, excellent dining, Disney perks, monorail access to Magic Kingdom and Epcot.

Cons: Very expensive, can be crowded.

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

Transport yourself to the South Pacific at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. This deluxe resort features themed accommodations, lush landscaping, and a laid-back atmosphere. Guests enjoy access to multiple pools, including a volcano-themed pool, as well as delicious Polynesian-inspired dining. Disney perks and complimentary transportation are also included.

Pros: Themed accommodations, great dining, Disney perks, monorail access to Magic Kingdom and Epcot.

Cons: Expensive, can be crowded.

Detailed Hotel Reviews and Key Features

Let’s delve deeper into some of the highlighted hotels, providing more detailed information about their amenities, dining options, and suitability for different family types.

All-Star Movies Resort: A Budget-Friendly Blast from the Past

The All-Star Movies Resort is a fantastic choice for families looking for an affordable and fun Disney experience. The resort is themed after classic Disney movies, with larger-than-life characters and iconic scenes scattered throughout the property. Kids will love taking photos with Buzz Lightyear, Woody, or the 101 Dalmatians.

Rooms: The rooms at All-Star Movies are standard value resort rooms, offering comfortable accommodations for up to four guests. Each room includes two double beds, a table and chairs, a TV, and a mini-fridge. While the rooms are relatively small, they are clean and well-maintained.

Amenities: The resort features two themed pools: the Fantasia Pool, inspired by Disney’s “Fantasia,” and the Duck Pond Pool, inspired by the “Mighty Ducks” movies. There is also a playground and an arcade for kids to enjoy.

Dining: The World Premiere Food Court offers a variety of casual dining options, including burgers, pizza, pasta, and salads. While the food court is convenient, it can get crowded during peak hours. Guests can also take advantage of the pizza delivery service.

Transportation: All-Star Movies provides complimentary bus transportation to all Disney theme parks, water parks, and Disney Springs. While the bus service is convenient, it can be slow during peak hours.

Family Suitability: All-Star Movies is best suited for families with young children who are primarily interested in spending time at the parks. The affordable price and fun theming make it a popular choice for budget-conscious families.

Caribe Royale Orlando: Spacious Suites for Family Comfort

Caribe Royale Orlando stands out with its spacious suites, providing ample room for families to spread out and relax. The resort offers a variety of suite options, including one-bedroom suites and two-bedroom villas.

Rooms: The one-bedroom suites feature a separate living area with a pull-out sofa bed, a dining area, and a kitchenette. The two-bedroom villas offer even more space, with a full kitchen and two bathrooms.

Amenities: Caribe Royale boasts an impressive array of amenities, including multiple pools, a splash pad, a lazy river, and a 75-foot water slide. The resort also features a fitness center, a spa, and a game room.

Dining: Caribe Royale offers several on-site dining options, including a fine-dining restaurant, a casual cafe, and a poolside bar and grill. The resort also offers room service.

Transportation: Caribe Royale provides complimentary transportation to Disney World. However, the shuttle service may be limited, so guests may need to rely on ride-sharing services or rental cars.

Family Suitability: Caribe Royale is ideal for families who value space and comfort. The spacious suites and numerous amenities make it a great choice for extended stays or families with older children.

Four Seasons Resort Orlando: Luxury and Magic Combined

The Four Seasons Resort Orlando is the epitome of luxury, offering unparalleled service, exquisite amenities, and a prime location within the Walt Disney World Resort area. This resort is a splurge, but the experience is truly unforgettable.

Rooms: The rooms and suites at the Four Seasons are elegantly appointed and feature luxurious amenities, such as marble bathrooms, private balconies, and plush bedding. The resort also offers connecting rooms and suites for larger families.

Amenities: The Four Seasons boasts a five-acre water park, Explorer Island, which includes a lazy river, water slides, and multiple pools. The resort also features a championship golf course, a spa, a kids’ club, and a teen center.

Dining: The Four Seasons offers a variety of world-class dining options, including a Michelin-starred steakhouse, a poolside grill, and a character breakfast with Goofy and his friends.

Transportation: The Four Seasons provides complimentary transportation to Disney World and offers access to Disney planning services, such as assistance with booking dining reservations and FastPasses (now Genie+).

Family Suitability: The Four Seasons is perfect for families who want a luxurious and stress-free Disney vacation. The resort’s exceptional amenities and services ensure a magical experience for both adults and children.

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort: A Tropical Paradise

Escape to a tropical paradise at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. This deluxe resort transports guests to the South Pacific with its lush landscaping, themed accommodations, and laid-back atmosphere. From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a faraway island.

Rooms: The resort offers a variety of accommodations, including standard rooms, suites, and overwater bungalows. The Moana-themed rooms are particularly popular with families. The bungalows offer luxurious accommodations and stunning views of the Seven Seas Lagoon.

Amenities: The Polynesian features two themed pools: the Lava Pool, which includes a volcano, a water slide, and a zero-entry area, and the Oasis Pool, which offers a more tranquil atmosphere. The resort also features a beach, a playground, and a children’s activity center.

Dining: The Polynesian offers several dining options, including ‘Ohana, a family-style restaurant serving Polynesian-inspired cuisine, and Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto, a popular tiki bar. The resort also offers a character breakfast with Lilo and Stitch.

Transportation: The Polynesian is located on the monorail line, providing convenient access to Magic Kingdom and Epcot. The resort also offers bus transportation to other Disney parks and Disney Springs.

Family Suitability: Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is ideal for families who want a unique and immersive Disney experience. The resort’s tropical theming, excellent dining, and convenient transportation make it a popular choice for families of all ages.

Tips for Booking Your Hotel

To ensure you get the best deal and the perfect hotel for your family, consider these tips:

• Book in Advance: Hotels near Disney World tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Book your hotel well in advance to secure your preferred room type and price.
• Compare Prices: Use online travel agencies to compare prices from different hotels and find the best deal.
• Look for Packages: Consider booking a vacation package that includes hotel, park tickets, and dining options. These packages can often save you money.
• Check for Discounts: Look for discounts offered by Disney, AAA, or other organizations.
• Read Reviews: Read reviews from other families to get an idea of the hotel’s overall quality and suitability.
• Consider Travel Insurance: Purchase travel insurance to protect yourself against unexpected events, such as illness or trip cancellations.

Preparing for Your Trip

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it’s time to start planning the rest of your trip. Here are some tips for preparing for your Disney World vacation:

• Make Park Reservations: Make park reservations as soon as possible, as some parks may reach capacity, especially during peak season.
• Download the My Disney Experience App: The My Disney Experience app is essential for planning your Disney World vacation. You can use the app to make park reservations, book dining reservations, check wait times, and navigate the parks.
• Plan Your Itinerary: Plan a rough itinerary for each day of your trip, including which parks you want to visit and which attractions you want to experience.
• Book Dining Reservations: Book dining reservations well in advance, as popular restaurants fill up quickly.
• Pack Appropriately: Pack comfortable shoes, sunscreen, hats, and other essentials for a day at the parks.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated, especially during the hot summer months.
• Take Breaks: Take breaks throughout the day to avoid burnout. Find a shady spot to relax or return to your hotel for a midday nap.

Enjoy Your Magical Vacation!

With careful planning and the right accommodation, your family trip to Disney World will be an unforgettable experience. Choose a hotel that suits your budget and needs, and get ready for a magical vacation filled with fun, adventure, and memories that will last a lifetime! Remember to factor in transportation, amenities, and proximity to the parks when making your decision. Happy planning!

Beyond the Parks: Exploring Orlando’s Other Attractions

While Disney World is the main draw for many families visiting Orlando, the city offers a wide array of other attractions worth exploring. Consider adding a few of these to your itinerary for a well-rounded vacation experience:

Universal Orlando Resort

Universal Orlando Resort is home to two theme parks, Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, as well as the Volcano Bay water park and CityWalk, a vibrant entertainment district. Experience thrilling rides, immersive attractions, and iconic movie and TV sets. Harry Potter fans will especially love the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, spread across both parks.

SeaWorld Orlando

SeaWorld Orlando offers a blend of marine life encounters, thrilling rides, and educational shows. Get up close with dolphins, whales, and other marine animals, and enjoy exciting roller coasters and water rides. The park is also committed to conservation efforts and animal rescue.

LEGOLAND Florida Resort

LEGOLAND Florida Resort is a great option for families with younger children. The park features LEGO-themed rides, shows, and attractions, as well as a water park. Kids can build their own LEGO creations and meet their favorite LEGO characters.

ICON Park

ICON Park is an entertainment complex featuring the ICON Orlando observation wheel, Madame Tussauds Orlando wax museum, SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, and a variety of restaurants and shops. Take a ride on the ICON Orlando for stunning views of the city and surrounding area.

Gatorland

For a unique and thrilling experience, visit Gatorland, the “Alligator Capital of the World.” See thousands of alligators and crocodiles, enjoy live shows, and even zip line over the alligator breeding marsh.

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Located about an hour’s drive from Orlando, the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex offers a fascinating look at space exploration. See rockets, spacecraft, and astronaut artifacts, and experience simulated space missions. It’s an educational and inspiring destination for the whole family.

Making the Most of Your Hotel Stay

Once you’ve chosen your hotel, here are some tips to help you make the most of your stay:

• Take Advantage of Hotel Amenities: Make sure to explore all the amenities that your hotel offers, such as pools, water parks, kids’ clubs, and fitness centers.
• Utilize Complimentary Services: Take advantage of complimentary services such as shuttle transportation, breakfast, and evening receptions.
• Ask for Recommendations: Don’t hesitate to ask hotel staff for recommendations on local restaurants, attractions, and activities.
• Join the Hotel Loyalty Program: If you plan to stay at the same hotel chain in the future, join their loyalty program to earn points and receive exclusive benefits.
• Pack Snacks and Drinks: Save money by packing your own snacks and drinks, especially for long days at the parks.
• Use Laundry Facilities: Take advantage of on-site laundry facilities to avoid overpacking.
• Leave a Tip for Housekeeping: Show your appreciation for the housekeeping staff by leaving a tip.
• Report Any Issues: If you encounter any issues during your stay, such as a broken appliance or a noisy neighbor, report them to the front desk immediately.

Essential Packing List for Your Disney World Vacation

To ensure you’re prepared for your Disney World adventure, here’s a comprehensive packing list:

• Clothing: Comfortable walking shoes, breathable clothing (shorts, t-shirts, sundresses), swimwear, a light jacket or sweater (for evenings and air-conditioned spaces), rain gear (poncho or umbrella).
• Toiletries: Sunscreen, insect repellent, shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, any necessary medications.
• Accessories: Hats, sunglasses, backpacks, reusable water bottles, portable phone charger, autograph book and pen (for character meet-and-greets).
• Documents: Photo identification, park tickets, hotel confirmation, travel insurance information, credit cards/cash.
• Electronics: Cell phone, camera, charger, portable power bank, tablet (for entertainment during travel).
• First Aid Kit: Band-aids, pain relievers, antiseptic wipes, motion sickness medication.
• Snacks: Non-perishable snacks (granola bars, crackers, fruit snacks) to save money on park food.
• Other: Stroller (for young children), baby wipes, hand sanitizer, travel-sized detergent (for quick washes), Ziploc bags (for snacks and wet items).

Navigating Disney World with Kids

Visiting Disney World with kids requires some strategic planning to ensure everyone has a magical and enjoyable experience. Here are some tips for navigating the parks with children:

• Plan Ahead: Research the park layout and attractions beforehand. Prioritize rides and experiences that are suitable for your children’s ages and interests.
• Utilize Rider Switch: If you have young children who don’t meet the height requirements for certain rides, take advantage of the Rider Switch service. This allows one parent to ride while the other waits with the child, and then they can switch places without having to wait in line again.
• Take Advantage of Baby Care Centers: Each park has a Baby Care Center that provides a quiet and comfortable space for feeding, changing diapers, and nursing.
• Use the Stroller Wisely: Rent or bring a stroller to help transport young children and their belongings. Consider a stroller with a canopy to protect them from the sun.
• Pace Yourselves: Don’t try to do too much in one day. Take breaks throughout the day to rest and recharge.
• Meet Characters Early: Character meet-and-greets are often less crowded earlier in the day. Check the park maps and the My Disney Experience app for character locations and times.
• Use Mobile Ordering: Save time and avoid long lines by using the mobile ordering feature in the My Disney Experience app to order food and drinks at select quick-service restaurants.
• Stay Hydrated: Encourage your children to drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.
• Be Prepared for Meltdowns: Kids can get overwhelmed and tired in the parks. Be patient, understanding, and prepared to handle meltdowns with snacks, drinks, or a quiet place to rest.
• Have Fun!: Remember to relax and enjoy the magic of Disney World with your family!