There’s a lot to consider when you’re choosing a hotel to stay at during your Disney World vacation!
How much does it cost? What restaurants are nearby? Do the rooms have enough space for you and all your kiddos? What about the theming? And, while these are all important things to consider, one thing that often gets overlooked is WHERE the hotel is located in relation to the theme parks!
Why Stay at a Hotel Near The Parks
Choosing a Disney World hotel that is close to the Disney Parks can be one of the best ways to maximize your park time! You’ll spend less time traveling to the parks, giving you so much more time to enjoy the parks. Plus, if you’re planning to get to the parks super early and stay late, staying at a hotel that is really close (or even within walking distance) to the parks can mean you get more sleep — something we all need more of at Disney World!
Now, Walt Disney World is BIG. In fact, it spans over 25,000 acres, which is roughly the same size as the entire city of San Francisco. So, it’s impossible to be close to every single Disney Park. But, there’s a good chance that there are one or two parks that you want to spend more time at compared to the others. For example, maybe you want to spend as much time as possible trying all the eats and drinks at the latest EPCOT festival. Or, maybe it’s your goal to see the fireworks at Magic Kingdom as many times as you can during your stay.
So, before you book your Disney resort, consider which park you think you’ll frequent the most. With that narrowed down, it’s time to choose your hotel! But, which one is best? Well, we’ve got the FULL LIST of Disney hotels that are closest to each of the four theme parks. We’ll break down what your transportation options are, if it’s within walking distance to any of the theme parks, and anything else you need to know before you make a reservation.
So, let’s get to it!
Closest Hotels to Magic Kingdom
There are a lot of reasons to choose a Disney hotel that is close to Magic Kingdom.
One of the most significant benefits of staying at a Disney World hotel near the Magic Kingdom park is pure convenience. You’ll be just a few minutes away from the park entrance, making it easy to get there early and stay late. This proximity also allows you to easily return to your hotel room for a midday break, which can be particularly beneficial if you’ve got little kiddos.
And, aside from being able to maximize your time in Disney World’s most iconic park, these hotels tend to have some of the best amenities around! Almost all of the hotels close to Magic Kingdom are considered Disney Deluxe Resorts, meaning that they’re the cream of the crop when it comes to Disney hotels.
So, here’s your guide to the Magic Kingdom Resorts!
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is one of the hotels in the Magic Kingdom resort area that is located on the Disney Monorail. It is themed to make you feel like you’ve been transported back into the Victorian Era with a luxurious atmosphere that you can only find here.
Like other Deluxe Resorts in Disney World, there are some noteworthy places to eat at Disney’s Grand Floridian including THREE signature dining restaurants. Plus, you’ll want to be sure to carve out some time to visit the Beauty and The Beast-themed lounge, The Enchanted Rose. Plus, there’s also a full-service spa here if you want to get in some real R&R during your stay!
But, the biggest perk of staying at the Grand Floridian for huge Magic Kingdom fans? The proximity to the park!
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is the second closest Disney hotel to Magic Kingdom with THREE different options for getting to and from the park. You can hop on the monorail, enjoy a leisurely boat ride to the park on the Seven Seas Lagoon, or use the walking path — the park entrance is just a short walk away!
Note that Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa is also a Disney Vacation Club hotel, so you can stay in the newly renovated (and expanded) Deluxe Villas if you’d like more space, including multiple bedroom suites!
Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Disney’s Contemporary Resort is actually the closest Disney resort to Magic Kingdom. The Deluxe Resort is known for its modern architecture and unique monorail system that runs directly through the building. Plus, it’s home to one of the most popular character dining restaurants in Disney World — Chef Mickey’s! Or, if you’d prefer a more adult-oriented meal, try the rooftop signature restaurant, California Grill.
The easiest (and fastest) way to get to Magic Kingdom from the Contemporary is to walk. There’s a short walking path that connects the two — and it only takes 10 minutes tops! You can also opt to hop on the monorail, but this will take a bit longer since Magic Kingdom is the fourth stop on the loop.
Note that Disney’s Contemporary Resort is also a Disney Vacation Club hotel, so you can stay in the Bay Lake Tower Villas (which are actually even closer to Magic Kingdom!) if you’d like more space.
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is known for its South Pacific theming with lush tropical landscaping, creating a relaxing atmosphere for your Disney vacation. One of the main attractions at the Polynesian Village Resort is the FOOD! This is the only hotel in Disney World where you can get a DOLE Whip and the Table Service restaurant, ‘Ohana, is regarded by fans as one of the best restaurants on property.
The Polynesian is the third (and final) hotel on the Magic Kingdom monorail loop and is actually the furthest from the park entrance. That being said, you’ll still get to Magic Kingdom in no time using either the monorail or the walking path that passes by Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, making it about a 25-minute walk in total. Boat transportation is also available if you’d prefer a more relaxed trip to and from the park.
Note that Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is also a Disney Vacation Club hotel, so you can stay in the Deluxe Villas or Bungalows (which are right on the Seven Seas Lagoon!) if you’d like more space.
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Of all the Magic Kingdom area resorts, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge offers up some of the coziest vibes of them all while still having all the Deluxe Resort amenities. Themed to make you feel like you’ve stepped into a cozy cabin in the woods, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge has the benefit of feeling secluded while still being only minutes away from the park.
Magic Kingdom is only a short boat ride away (about 15 minutes), and you can catch the water taxi just past the giant geyser that goes off at the top of every hour between 7AM and 10PM.
Note that Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is also a Disney Vacation Club hotel, so you can stay in either the Cooper Creek Villas & Cabins or the Boulder Ridge Villas if you’d like more space.
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground is a bit further from Magic Kingdom compared to the hotels above, but it’s still closer than most hotels and is the cheapest Disney resort with boat transportation to the theme park!
Fort Wilderness is like its own little town, nestled in the heart of the Walt Disney World Resort. It’s actually a combination of a hotel and a campground, so you can choose to stay in a cozy cabin or bring your own tent or RV. Other things that make this hotel unique are that you can go horseback riding, test your skills that the archery range, or stop by what might be the most underrated dinner show in all of Disney World — Hoop-Dee-Doo Revue.
And, of course, you’ll be able to enjoy it all while being a boat ride away from the most popular Disney Park!
BONUS: Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World
If you’d prefer to not stay at one of the Disney Resort hotels, the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World is the next best place if you want to be close to Magic Kingdom!
The resort offers complimentary transportation via luxury motor coach to all four theme parks, with Magic Kingdom being the shortest drive.
Closest Hotels To EPCOT & Disney’s Hollywood Studios
If you want to make the most of your time at EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, then staying at a Disney hotel near these parks is the best choice. These two parks are located in close proximity to each other, so you can easily hop back and forth between them throughout the day.
Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resort
Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club is actually two different hotels — the Yacht Club Resort and the Beach Club Resort. They’re located right next to each other and are often lumped together because they share many of the same amenities including the fitness center and what’s considered by many Disney fans as the BEST pool on Disney property!
The major difference between the two is the theming. Disney’s Yacht Club Resort is known for its elegant and sophisticated theming that’s inspired by the grandeur of New England’s seaside towns. Whereas, Disney’s Beach Club Resort is inspired by the charming and relaxing seaside resorts of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket.
Regardless of which hotel you choose, you’ll be only steps away from EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios! Both Disney’s Yacht Club Resort and Disney’s Beach Club Resort have a walking path to each theme park, plus boat transportation is also available.
Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
Inspired by the seaside boardwalks of the early 20th century, Disney’s BoardWalk Inn is another Deluxe hotel that is close to both EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
What makes this hotel stand out from the others is that it is located in the middle of Disney’s BoardWalk. This means that you’re only steps away from some of the best dining options around (including THREE unique bars for those who want to stay at a hotel with some nightlife), entertainment, and — of course — the theme parks!
The easiest way to get to EPCOT from Disney’s BoardWalk Inn is to walk, or you can opt to take Disney’s free boat transportation to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. A path can also get you to Hollywood Studios, though it’s a much further walk.
CLICK HERE to see the NEW ROOMS at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn!
Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin Resort
If you’d prefer not to stay at one of the Disney resorts but still want the convenience of being close to the parks, the Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin Resort is your best option! These two hotels are both owned and operated by Marriott, but guests staying here get access to a lot of the same perks as Disney Resort guests including Early Theme Park Entry, Extended Evening Theme Park Hours, and proximity to the parks.
The Swan and Dolphin are located right next to Disney’s BoardWalk, meaning that you’ll still be within walking distance of EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. Plus, the boat that takes guests between the two parks for free also makes a stop here.
Walt Disney World Swan Reserve
The Walt Disney World Swan Reserve is a new Marriott hotel that is located right next to the Swan & Dolphin. So, like the other two hotels, you’ll be getting all the same perks, while being only steps away from Disney’s Hollywood Studios and EPCOT!
And, while Disney doesn’t technically offer boat transportation from the Swan Reserve, you’re only a short walk away from the boat dock at the Swan & Dolphin!
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort is one of the only Moderate Resorts that offers quick and convenient transportation to both EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. The hotel’s theming is inspired by the lively and colorful Caribbean islands, with its vibrant colors, lush landscaping, and beachy atmosphere transporting guests to a paradise-like setting.
As the hub for the newest transportation option in the Walt Disney World Resort — the Disney Skyliner — you’ll be a quick gondola ride away from the entrance to both parks. Just note that the Disney Skyliner doesn’t operate during inclement weather, so guests will need to use Disney bus transportation to get between the parks and hotel in the case of rain or heavy winds.
CLICK HERE to see the NEW Little Mermaid-themed rooms at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort!
Disney’s Riviera Resort
Disney’s Riviera Resort is one of the newest Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts with theming that is inspired by Walt and Lillian Disney’s vacations to Europe, specifically the French and Italian Riviera coastline. The European and Mediterranean style of the hotel influences more than just the atmosphere and decor. You’ll notice it in the food and drink that’s available at the restaurants and even the music that is playing throughout the resort, making it so that you really feel like you’ve vacationed to the European Riviera yourself!
And, you won’t be far from EPCOT and Hollywood Studios when you stay here, as Disney’s Riviera Resort is one of only four hotels connected to the two parks via the Disney Skyliner.
Disney’s Pop Century Resort
Disney’s Pop Century Resort is one of the cheapest and most kid-friendly hotels that is located near EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. The hotel is themed after the decades of the 20th century with larger-than-life icons representing the 1950s, 60s, 70s, 80s, and 90s giving you a rare chance to relive all the nostalgia.
What makes this hotel unique, though, is that it is one of only two Value Resorts located on the Disney Skyliner! So, you’ll have convenient and quick transportation to the two parks without having to break your budget.
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is the only other Value Resort located on the Disney Skyliner route, making it easy to get to both EPCOT and Hollywood Studios.
As one of the few Disney Resorts that offers family suites, this hotel is best for larger families who are on a budget but need more space than the standard Disney hotel room.
BONUS: Hotels With Monorail Transportation To EPCOT
Note that all of these hotels require that you transfer monorails at the Transportation and Ticket Center. Direct monorail transportation is only available to Magic Kingdom, not EPCOT.
- Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
- Disney’s Contemporary Resort
- Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Closest Hotels To Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Staying at a hotel near Disney’s Animal Kingdom is more of an underrated Disney vacation planning move, but it might be the greatest hack to having a relaxing trip!
Not only will you be a short bus ride away from Disney’s Animal Kingdom, but you’ll also be pretty close to other theme parks like EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios (though, some other hotels are a bit closer). Plus, this area of Disney property is a bit more secluded compared to the rest. So, unlike other hotels near the Disney theme parks that tend to have more guests who are just stopping by during the day, you won’t experience any huge crowds where you’re staying.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is the only Disney World hotel that is home to more than 30 species of exotic animals — and, the best part, you can see them from your room! Plus, there are several viewing areas where you can get up close and personal with the wildlife or take part in special activities like nighttime safari tours and unique animal encounters.
And, the food? Let’s just say you won’t be disappointed. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge features several restaurants that serve up delicious African-inspired cuisine, along with classic American favorites. And, you simply can’t leave without trying the popular Zebra Domes at The Mara or Boma.
When it comes to getting to Disney’s Animal Kingdom, your bus ride will be nice and short because it’s basically right next door. Nearly all the other Disney Resorts are much further away from the theme park, so enjoy the short ride!
BONUS: Closest Hotels To Disney Springs
Disney Springs is the largest entertainment district on Disney Property and is home to some of the BEST dining, shopping, and entertainment options. With over 100 different restaurants, bars, and shops to choose from, there’s something for everyone here. And, staying at a Disney hotel nearby means you can easily access all the fun and excitement without having to worry about transportation or parking.
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort
If you’re looking for the closest Walt Disney World hotel to Disney Spring, Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort is THE hotel! As a Disney Vacation Club Resort, you’ll be treated to a more relaxed atmosphere here with theming that is inspired by the horse racing culture of upstate New York.
And, you won’t even have to worry about hopping on a bus to get to Disney Springs — you’re only a walk away! Of course, you could also opt to use Disney’s complimentary boat transportation to get there if you’d prefer.
Disney’s Old Key West Resort
Disney’s Old Key West Resort is the oldest Disney Vacation Club hotel, having opened back in 1991. But, don’t let the age of the resort fool you, this hotel is one of the best places to stay if you’re looking for some R&R during your trip! The resort’s theming is inspired by the laid-back atmosphere of Key West, Florida, making it hard not to relax at least a little bit during your stay here.
And, if you want easy access to some of the best shopping and dining in Disney World, you’re only a boat ride away from Disney Springs!
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort is a charming and relaxing hotel that offers complimentary boat transportation to and from Disney Springs. The resort is split into two separate sections — Riverside and French Quarter — each with its own unique theming and atmosphere.
The Riverside section of the resort is inspired by the quaint towns and peaceful waterways of the south, with gorgeous oak trees, magnolias, and charming antebellum architecture. The French Quarter section, on the other hand, transports guests to the lively streets of New Orleans, with colorful buildings, jazz music, and Mardi Gras-inspired decor. This is where you can find Disney’s signature Mickey Beignets!
So, there you have it, all the Disney World Resorts that are located closest to the Disney Parks! Use this to help you make your decision on which Disney hotel is best for your next vacation. And, stay tuned to The VacationEAR for more Disney hotel planning tips, tricks, and updates!