Planning a trip to the Disneyland Resort is an exciting adventure filled with anticipation and joy. One of the most important aspects of ensuring a magical experience is choosing the perfect hotel that aligns with your needs and preferences. The Disneyland Resort and its surrounding areas offer a variety of exceptional hotels, each providing unique amenities and distinct atmospheres to cater to different types of travelers.
Whether you’re seeking the ultimate luxury, a family-friendly environment, or a budget-friendly option, there’s a hotel to enhance your Disneyland experience. In this article, we will explore the seven best Disneyland hotels at the Disneyland Resort, highlighting their key features, unique selling points, and considerations to help you make an informed decision for your stay.
Disneyland Hotels at a Glimpse
| Hotel Name | Unique Features | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa | Direct park access, luxury amenities, spa services | Higher price, early booking recommended |
| Disneyland Hotel | Historical charm, monorail pool, character dining | Busy location, higher cost |
| Disney's Pixar Place Hotel | Fun beach theme, pool with water slide, park views | Longer walk to parks, limited dining |
| Hilton Anaheim | Versatile accommodation, event facilities, outdoor recreation | Less personal feel, busy during conventions |
| Howard Johnson Anaheim Hotel & Water Playground | Water playground, family-friendly rooms, budget-friendly | Fewer luxury amenities, lively atmosphere |
| Anaheim Marriott | Modern comfort, recreational facilities, trendy dining | Business-centric, additional parking fees |
| Best Western Plus Park Place Inn – Mini Suites | Prime location, value for money, free breakfast | Limited dining options, basic amenities |
1. Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
Location: Adjacent to Disney California Adventure Park
Key Features:
- Direct Park Access: Exclusive entrance to Disney California Adventure Park.
- Luxury Accommodations: Elegantly designed rooms with modern amenities.
- Spa and Pools: Full-service spa, three themed pools, and cabanas.
- Dining Options: Fine dining at Napa Rose, casual options at Storytellers Café.
- Activities for Kids: Character dining, storytelling by the fireplace, and more.
- Special Services: Concierge, valet parking, and in-room celebrations.
Room Types:
- Standard rooms, Club Level rooms, and various suites.
- Some rooms offer views of Disney California Adventure Park.
Unique Selling Points:
- Direct Park Access: Guests love the convenience of a private entrance to Disney California Adventure Park.
- Exclusive Experiences: Enjoy exclusive perks like early park admission (Extra Magic Hour) and unique in-room celebrations.
- Sophisticated Atmosphere: The Craftsman-style architecture and luxurious interiors make it a serene retreat after a fun-filled day.
- Spa Services: The Mandara Spa offers a range of treatments, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Considerations:
- Higher price point compared to other Disneyland Resort hotels.
- Book early for the best availability, especially during peak seasons.
Why Choose This Hotel?
Ideal for families seeking a luxurious stay with direct access to the parks and top-notch amenities.
Who Should Stay Here:
- Families looking for a luxury experience with convenient park access.
- Guests who enjoy high-end amenities like spas and fine dining.
- Disney enthusiasts wanting to stay in a premium Disney-branded hotel.
Who Should Not Stay Here:
- Budget-conscious travelers looking for more affordable accommodations.
- Guests who prefer a quieter, less busy environment.
- Travelers not planning to spend much time in the hotel.
2. Disneyland Hotel
Location: Steps away from Downtown Disney District
Key Features:
- Iconic Disney Experience: Classic Disney-themed rooms and suites.
- Monorail Waterslides: Two monorail-themed slides at the E-Ticket Pool.
- Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar: A unique, themed dining experience.
- Character Dining: Enjoy meals with Disney characters at Goofy’s Kitchen.
- Convention Center: Ideal for business events and conferences.
Room Types:
- Standard rooms, themed suites, and Club Level accommodations.
- Views of Downtown Disney or the hotel’s gardens and pools.
Unique Selling Points:
- Historical Charm: Being the original Disneyland hotel, it offers a rich history and nostalgic Disney magic.
- Monorail Pool: The monorail-themed slides are a big hit with kids and adults alike.
- Dining Options: Goofy’s Kitchen is perfect for a fun character dining experience, and Steakhouse 55 offers fine dining for special occasions.
- Renovated Rooms: Recently updated rooms feature modern amenities with classic Disney touches.
Considerations:
- Can be busy and noisy due to its popularity and proximity to Downtown Disney.
- Higher cost but justified by its prime location and amenities.
Why Choose This Hotel?
Perfect for guests wanting a nostalgic Disney experience with modern amenities and easy access to Downtown Disney.
Who Should Stay Here:
- Disney fans looking for a classic, nostalgic experience.
- Families with children who will enjoy character dining and themed pools.
- Travelers wanting close proximity to Downtown Disney and the parks.
Who Should Not Stay Here:
- Budget travelers seeking lower-cost accommodations.
- Guests who prefer a more modern or less Disney-themed environment.
- Those looking for a quieter hotel away from busy areas.
3. Disney’s Pixar Place Hotel
Location: Overlooking Disney California Adventure Park
Key Features:
- Beach-Themed Decor: Fun, bright, and beach-inspired rooms.
- Rooftop Pool: Enjoy the pool with a waterslide and view of the park.
- Character Dining: Breakfast with Disney characters at Great Maple Modern American Eatery.
- Park Views: Spectacular views of Disney California Adventure Park from select rooms.
- Family Activities: Movie nights, arcade, and seasonal pool parties.
Room Types:
- Standard rooms, premium rooms with park views, and suites.
- Beach-themed decor in every room.
Unique Selling Points:
- Thematic Fun: The playful beach theme is cheerful and great for families.
- Park Views: Higher floors offer stunning views of the nighttime park shows.
- Rooftop Pool Deck: Enjoy the rooftop pool and watch Disneyland’s fireworks from the pool area.
- Character Breakfast: PCH Grill’s Surf’s Up! Breakfast with Mickey and Friends is a favorite among guests.
Considerations:
- Slightly longer walk to the parks compared to other Disneyland Resort hotels.
- Limited dining options within the hotel, but Downtown Disney is nearby.
Why Choose This Hotel?
Great for families looking for a fun and lively environment with excellent views of the parks.
Who Should Stay Here:
- Families wanting a fun, beach-themed experience.
- Guests who enjoy character dining and themed hotel activities.
- Travelers seeking good views of Disney California Adventure Park.
Who Should Not Stay Here:
- Those preferring a more luxurious or quieter setting.
- Guests who want immediate access to the parks without a longer walk.
- Travelers looking for a wide variety of on-site dining options.
4. Hilton Anaheim
Location: Walking distance from Disneyland Resort
Key Features:
- Spacious Rooms: Modern and spacious rooms with family-friendly options.
- Outdoor Pool: Large pool area with a kids’ splash zone.
- Health Club: Full-service fitness center and spa.
- Dining Options: Multiple on-site dining choices, including Mix Restaurant.
- Business Amenities: Extensive meeting and event spaces.
Room Types:
- Standard rooms, family suites, and executive rooms.
- Rooms with Disneyland views available.
Unique Selling Points:
- Versatile Accommodation: Options range from standard rooms to spacious suites, catering to both families and business travelers.
- Event Facilities: Excellent for guests attending conventions or events at the nearby Anaheim Convention Center.
- Outdoor Recreation: Large pool with a kids’ splash zone and a well-equipped fitness center.
- On-Site Dining: Variety of dining options including health-conscious choices at Mix Restaurant.
Considerations:
- Larger hotel, which can feel less personal compared to Disney-branded properties.
- Busy during convention seasons; book in advance.
Why Choose This Hotel?
Ideal for families and business travelers looking for spacious accommodations and close proximity to Disneyland.
Who Should Stay Here:
- Families needing spacious rooms and family-friendly amenities.
- Business travelers attending events at the nearby convention center.
- Guests looking for a well-rounded hotel with multiple dining options.
Who Should Not Stay Here:
- Travelers seeking a Disney-themed experience.
- Those who prefer smaller, more boutique hotels.
- Guests who want to be directly on Disney property.
5. Howard Johnson Anaheim Hotel & Water Playground
Location: Across the street from Disneyland Resort
Key Features:
- Water Playground: Castaway Cove water playground with slides and splash areas.
- Family Suites: Spacious family suites with bunk beds.
- Pirate-Themed Rooms: Fun, themed rooms for kids.
- Garden Pool: Relaxing garden pool area for quieter moments.
- Convenient Location: Short walk to Disneyland and Downtown Disney.
Room Types:
- Standard rooms, family suites, and pirate-themed rooms.
- Some rooms offer views of Disneyland fireworks.
Unique Selling Points:
- Water Playground: Castaway Cove is a highlight for families with kids.
- Family-Friendly Rooms: Spacious rooms and suites with fun themes.
- Convenience: Directly across the street from Disneyland, making park access easy and quick.
- Budget-Friendly: Offers great value for money, especially for families.
Considerations:
- Fewer luxury amenities compared to Disney-branded hotels.
- Popular with families, so it can be lively and energetic.
Why Choose This Hotel?
Perfect for families with young children who will enjoy the themed rooms and water playground.
Who Should Stay Here:
- Families with young children who will love the water playground.
- Budget-conscious travelers looking for affordable, fun accommodations.
- Guests wanting to stay close to Disneyland without paying premium prices.
Who Should Not Stay Here:
- Travelers seeking luxurious or more adult-oriented accommodations.
- Guests preferring quieter, less busy hotels.
- Those looking for extensive on-site dining options.
6. Anaheim Marriott
Location: Near the Anaheim Convention Center, close to Disneyland Resort
Key Features:
- Modern Rooms: Contemporary rooms with luxurious bedding.
- Resort-Style Pool: Heated outdoor pool and whirlpool.
- Fitness Center: 24-hour fitness center with state-of-the-art equipment.
- Dining Options: Multiple on-site dining choices, including nFuse Bar & Kitchen.
- Event Spaces: Extensive meeting and event facilities.
Room Types:
- Standard rooms, executive rooms, and suites.
- Rooms with city or park views.
Unique Selling Points:
- Modern Comfort: Recently renovated rooms with comfortable beds and modern amenities.
- Recreational Facilities: Large pool area, fitness center, and on-site spa services.
- Dining Options: nFuse Bar & Kitchen offers a trendy dining experience.
- Convenience: Close proximity to Disneyland and the Anaheim Convention Center.
Considerations:
- Business-centric, so it may feel more corporate than other hotels.
- Parking fees can add to the overall cost.
Why Choose This Hotel?
Ideal for both leisure and business travelers seeking modern accommodations and amenities close to Disneyland.
Who Should Stay Here:
- Business travelers attending events at the convention center.
- Guests who appreciate modern, upscale accommodations.
- Families looking for a hotel with a variety of amenities.
Who Should Not Stay Here:
- Travelers seeking a Disney-themed experience.
- Budget-conscious travelers looking for more affordable options.
- Guests wanting a smaller, more intimate hotel environment.
7. Best Western Plus Park Place Inn – Mini Suites
Location: Directly across from Disneyland Resort entrance
Key Features:
- Value for Money: Affordable rates with great amenities.
- Free Breakfast: Complimentary breakfast for all guests.
- Family-Friendly Suites: Spacious suites with separate living areas.
- Outdoor Pool: Heated outdoor pool and hot tub.
- Proximity to Disneyland: One of the closest hotels to the Disneyland entrance.
Room Types:
- Mini suites with separate living areas.
- Rooms with park views available.
Unique Selling Points:
- Location, Location, Location: One of the closest hotels to Disneyland’s entrance, just a short walk away.
- Value: Affordable rates with essential amenities, ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
- Complimentary Breakfast: Start your day with a free breakfast before heading to the parks.
- Family-Friendly Suites: Suites with separate living areas provide extra space for families.
Considerations:
- Limited on-site dining options, but plenty nearby in Downtown Disney.
- Basic amenities compared to more luxurious options, but great value for its location.
Why Choose This Hotel?
Best for budget-conscious travelers seeking convenient access to Disneyland without compromising on comfort.
Who Should Stay Here:
- Budget-conscious travelers looking for value without sacrificing convenience.
- Families needing spacious suites and a free breakfast.
- Guests wanting to stay as close as possible to Disneyland’s entrance.
Who Should Not Stay Here:
- Travelers seeking luxury or high-end amenities.
- Those preferring a hotel with more extensive dining and recreational facilities.
- Guests looking for a quieter, more relaxed environment.
Choosing the right hotel can significantly enhance your Disneyland Resort experience. Whether you’re looking for luxury, themed accommodations, family-friendly amenities, or proximity to the parks, these seven hotels offer a range of options to suit your needs.
From the opulent Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa to the budget-friendly Best Western Plus Park Place Inn – Mini Suites, each hotel provides unique features and benefits to make your stay magical. Book your stay at one of these top Disneyland hotels and make unforgettable memories with your loved ones!