Disney Hotel or Non-Disney Hotel: Which is Right for You?

Name: VIP Disney Travel
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With over 450 hotels in the Orlando area, choosing where to stay can feel overwhelming. Imagine staying at a different hotel every night—it would take 15 months! While that may sound fun, it’s a lot of packing and unpacking. So, what should you consider when deciding between a Disney hotel or non-Disney hotel for your vacation?

Choosing a Disney hotel is one of the first decisions you’ll make when planning your trip. With more than 30 Disney hotels on-property and over 400 off-property options, the decision can be tricky.

A common question we hear is whether it’s better to stay at a Disney hotel or a non-Disney hotel when visiting Walt Disney World. Which Disney hotels are the best?

For some, the hotel is just a place to rest, but the right resort can enhance your vacation experience, even if you’re only there to sleep. The wrong resort, however, can add stress instead of relaxation.

When choosing your resort, consider factors like proximity to theme parks and the space you’ll have to spread out. This article will help you better understand the options available, both on Disney property and off, to make a more informed decision.

A great Disney Vacation Planner, like our friends at Destination Magic, can be invaluable in narrowing down your options. They’ve stayed at every Disney hotel on property and are familiar with surrounding areas and many off-property hotels. Whether you choose a Disney hotel or a non-Disney hotel, they can help you plan your ideal vacation.

The foundation of a VIP vacation begins with a fabulous resort. There is no shortage of fine accommodations in Disney World.

Disney Hotels Orlando

Disney World owns and operates over 30 hotels in Disney World plus a full-service campground. Disney Resort hotels are grouped into 4 categories:

Value
Moderate
Deluxe
Deluxe Villas

Most Disney Hotels in Orlando sleep up to 4 or 5 guests. The largest Disney Villas sleep up to 12.

All resorts will offer complimentary transportation to and from the parks, on-site dining, as well as recreation such as swimming pools. Plus, each offers onsite laundry. The number of options and proximity to the theme parks will vary generally by the type of resort.

Guests staying at a Disney hotel will also get complimentary transportation to and from Orlando International Airport. There is no reason or need to rent a car unless you plan to venture outside Disney property. You can take a vacation from driving and relax.

In addition to complimentary transportation, all guests staying at Disney resort hotels in Orlando receive a number of other perks, including Extra Magic Hours, where the parks open early or stay open late only for Disney resort guests.

Below is a list of the different hotels within each category. For more detailed information, read Disney World Resorts: An Overview

Value:

Moderate:

Deluxe:

Deluxe Villas:

In terms of Disney owned and operated resorts, staying at one, in our opinion, is part of the whole Disney vacation experience. Despite the fact that Disney resorts may be more expensive for less square footage, the benefits and perks are worth it.

Top 7 Benefits of Staying at
Disney Hotels Orlando vs a Non-Disney Hotel

In terms of staying at Disney hotels in Orlando versus a non-Disney hotel, staying at one, in our opinion, is part of the whole Disney vacation experience. Despite the fact that Disney resorts may be more expensive for less square footage, the benefits and perks are usually worth it, and here’s why…

#1. Stay In the Middle of the Magic

If you are taking a Disney vacation, why miss a minute of the magic. By staying at a Disney resort, you are in the middle of the magic.

Disney Imagineering does not end at the theme parks. They have continued to interweave Disney theming and creativity throughout their resorts. While some may have subtle Disney touches, others are lavishly Disney inside and out.

In addition to the resorts themselves, the manicured grounds and scenic surrounding areas keep you in the magical vacation bubble. You will not see strip malls or office buildings or other unsightly reminders of reality.

#2. Make the Most of Valuable Vacation Time

Disney World is nearly 40 square miles. It can take 20 minutes to get from one side of Disney proper to the other. With their close proximity to the Disney theme parks, you will spend less time commuting between the parks and your hotel. Which means more time for fun.

But if you need a break from all the action, you are close enough to head back to your hotel for a mid-day nap or even an afternoon swim. When you are ready to head back to the parks, you can be there in a jiffy. Far sooner than if you stayed off-property.

There are some resorts where you can walk to the parks. The only way to be closer is if you were spending the night inside Cinderella’s castle.

#3. Magic Bands

Similar in size to an iWatch, Magic Bands are a convenient contact-free way to make purchases throughout Disney. They also act as your park ticket and can unlock your room door when staying at Disney hotels and resorts.

They come in fun colors and are personalized with each guests’ name.

#4. Extra Magic Hours

On most days, one Disney park will either open early or stay open late (or both). It allows guests to spend extra time in the theme park, either before it opens or after it closes. Onsite guests can enjoy select experiences and attractions with fewer guests within the parks.

Extra Magic Hours are another awesome benefit to staying at an onsite property.

#5. Advanced Lightning Lane Booking

A Lightning Lane is a reserved ride time. Each reservation gives you a time window for when you can go enjoy that ride or attraction without having to wait on a long line.

Disney allows Disney resort guests to purchase and reserver their Lightning Lanes 7 days in advance of their visit. If you are not staying at a Disney resort you can purchase Lightning Lanes only 3 days in advance. Some rides are extremely popular and may not be available at the 3-day window. That is another perk for staying on-property.

#6. Earlier Dining Reservations

Everyone can make Disney Dining reservations can be made 60 days in advance. However, if you are staying at a Disney resort, you can make your reservations for the entire length of your stay beginning on your check-in date.

That means you can get a several day jump on other guests. That can be critical for impossible to get reservations such as Cinderella’s Royal Table or California Grill.

#7. Complimentary Disney World Transportation

One of Walt Disney’s original visions for Disney World was to create a vacation destination where parents could relax and leave driving behind. I’m not sure even Walt envisioned the transpiration system that Disney has today.

Walt Disney World’s bus system alone rivals that of any city. Add in the Monorail, boats, and new Skyliner and it really is an amazing transportation network.

Disney guests can get anywhere on Disney property without ever needing a car. To top it off, it’s all free.

#7. Dining Plan Eligible

To create an all-inclusive vacation package, Disney offers its resort guests the option of adding on a Dining Plan to their package. Disney says it will save you 20% – 40% depending on the plan. To fit most any budget and dining style., Disney offers several Dining Plans to choose from.

To learn more about the Disney Dining Plan, read:
What is the Disney Dining Plan, and is It Worth It?

#8. Magical Express Airport Transportation

The Magical Express is where all the magic begins (and sadly, ends).

Magical Express is Disney’s complimentary transportation between Orlando International Airport and all the Disney resorts on property. It will take you to your hotel and returns you back to the airport for your departure.

(The Magical Express is a motorcoach that will take you to and from Orlando International Airport only. Make sure when arranging flights that you do not book Sanford Airport, or you will not receive this service.)

These motor coaches are complete with plush seating, restrooms, along with onboard entertainment.

Another bonus feature of Magical Express service is that you do not have to handle your luggage. Disney will also transport it to you.

Just affix the special luggage tags that Disney sends you. When you drop your bags at your home airport, they will magically arrive at your hotel. You do not need to pick them up at baggage claim.

#10. Package Deliveries to Your Resort

Of course, you will be some souvenirs to commemorate your Disney vacation. But do you really want to lug it around all day? If you stay at a Disney Hotels in Orlando, you won’t have to.

In-park purchases can be delivered to your hotel, for no additional charge. Just be aware it is typically delivered the following day, so don’t save shopping for your last day.

Non-Disney Hotels On Disney Property

There are two types of “on property” resorts. In the true sense, the term referrers to resorts that are owned and operated by Disney. There are 30 Disney resorts on Disney property. (To learn more about Disney-owned hotels, read Disney World Resorts: An Overview.)

The non-Disney hotels on Disney property are chain hotels. They are more traditional is style and lack elaborate theming Disney resorts and known for.

The available accommodations vary from the Holiday Inn to Orlando’s only 5-Diamond resort, the Four Seasons.

Most Disney Hotels Orlando are located in the Disney Springs area. They are:

B Resort and Spa
Best Western
DoubleTree Suites
Four Seasons
Hilton Bonnet Creek
Hilton Orlando
Hilton Palace
Holiday Inn
Wyndham Resort
Waldorf Astoria
Wyndham Lake Buena Vista

For those wanting a bit of a respite from Disney, these resorts may be a good combination of convenience and distance.

In addition to those above, there are 2 additional non-Disney owned hotels on property. They are:

Walt Disney World Swan
Walt Disney World Dolphin

The Swan and the Dolphin are owned and operated by Marriott. These icon hotels are also the most convenient resorts to theme parks. Their striking exterior architecture is a real standout in the Epcot Resort Area.

All of these non-Disney properties provide many conveniences of being on Disney property and offer several of the perks offered to guests at Disney owned resorts, but not all. For example, Magical Express airport transportation is not provided.

These resorts do provide some transportation to and from the Disney theme parks, but not nearly as often as Disney hotels in Orlando do. Transportation between the parks and Disney hotels runs about every 20 minutes. These non-Disney hotels run much less frequently. Typically, every hour in the morning and evening, and every other hour mid-day. For an exact schedule, you should contact the hotel directly.

Read our review of the most luxurious hotels near Disney World: The Ritz Carlton, The Waldorf Astoria, and The Four Seasons.

Non-Disney Hotels Off-Property

With 145,000 hotel rooms in the Orlando area, there are endless choices, especially when it comes to those not owned or operated by Disney. These are referred to as “off-property” hotels and are generally located outside the bounds of the Walt Disney World Resort.

There is a wide range of non-Disney Hotels in Orlando to fit any budget and family needs. Options include inexpensive motels, brand-name hotel chains, luxury resorts with lavish poolscapes, and even private homes in resort communities.

Price is often a driving factor when deciding to stay off-property. For some, using loyalty points to book a room is a nice benefit, as Disney Hotels can be expensive.

Another common reason people choose to stay off-property is that you typically get more space for your money compared to Disney resorts. However, there are several factors to consider to ensure you are making an apples-to-apples comparison.

For example, while some off-property resorts may offer free transportation to the parks, it may only be a few times a day, unlike the constant transportation service offered by Disney resorts. Additionally, you will need to factor in transportation to and from the airport, whether via a rental car, shuttle, or taxi.

If you’re driving yourself, keep in mind that parking fees are required at the theme parks, which can add up. Be sure to factor this in when comparing prices to Disney resorts.

Staying off-property also offers a different experience than staying at a Disney resort. While some hotels may offer free breakfast, many Disney perks are exclusive to Disney resort guests, such as early access to FastPass+ reservations or extended hours in the theme parks.

Another important consideration is transportation. Disney-owned hotels are the only ones that provide free transportation to and from Orlando International Airport. Some off-property resorts may offer transportation to the theme parks, but schedules can vary, sometimes only offering rides once or twice a day. If you’re staying off-property, it’s important to confirm transportation availability in advance or plan for a rental car.

To learn more about the types of Walt Disney World theme park tickets offered, read:

Disney Tickets Explained

With over 400 non-Disney hotels of varying types and price points, it would impossible to go into each one. Instead, we are going to highlight the different areas around Disney World that have clusters of hotels and resorts. Each has its own character and proximity to Disney and other central Florida attractions.

Downtown Orlando Area

When booking a non-Disney hotel in Orlando, that typically refers to the city compared to the areas closer to the theme parks.

Downtown Orlando is packed with dining and nightlife, professional sports like the Orlando Magic NBA team, and award-winning arts. If you are seeking adventures beyond the theme parks, this may be a good location for you. This is also a good option for adult vacationers.

International Drive Area

International Drive (I-Drive) is a destination in itself, offering an abundance of attractions, dining, and shopping options. Notable highlights include WonderWorks, iFLY Orlando Indoor Skydiving, and ICON Park, along with an endless selection of chain restaurants, vibrant nightlife such as Sleuths Mystery Dinner Shows, and two outlet malls—Orlando International Premium Outlets and Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets.

Known as the heart of Orlando’s tourism district, I-Drive is one of the most popular areas for visitors choosing to stay off Disney property. It’s a walkable area with something for everyone.

The area is also home to the Orlando Convention Center, with over 2.1 million square feet of space and hosting major trade and consumer shows year-round.

If you want to save your steps for walking in the parks, public transportation options are readily available. The I-RIDE Trolley is one of the most convenient and least expensive ways to explore the International Drive Resort Area. Additionally, LYNX, the area’s public bus system, offers routes servicing the Orange County Convention Center and connections to Orlando International Airport and Downtown Orlando.

While the hotels on I-Drive are closer to Universal Studios than to Disney World, Disney is still easy to access and closer than Downtown Orlando, making it a great option for those seeking convenient accommodations.

Universal Studios Area

Universal Studios is located right off of International Drive. At Universal Studios, you will find several fabulous hotel options with easy access to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure Park.

As with Disney hotels Orlando, Universal’s hotel guests get a number of perks such as complimentary resort transportation and Early Park Admission† to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Universal’s Volcano Bay. You also get complimentary package delivery to your resort, so you don’t have to carry your purchases with you all day.

Skip the Lines! Guests staying at Universals Premier Resorts, Lowes Royal Pacific Resort, Hard Rock Hotel, or Lowes Portofino Bay Hotel get FREE Universal Express Unlimited Passes.

Sea World Area

Sea World is on the east side near the Orange County Convention Center.

There are 8 Official SeaWorld Partner Hotels where guests can receive exclusive theme park perks, including a free Quick Queue pass and reserved Signature Seating at the majestic animal shows.

Doubletree by Hilton Orlando at SeaWorld
Fairfield Inn & Suites Orlando at SeaWorld
Hampton Inn & Suites Orlando at SeaWorld
Hilton Garden Inn Orlando at SeaWorld
Hilton Grand Vacations at SeaWorld
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Orlando at SeaWorld
Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld
Residence Inn Orlando at SeaWorld
Springhill Suites Orlando at SeaWorld
Staybridge Suites Orlando at SeaWorld
TownePlace Suites Orlando at SeaWorld

Kissimmee and Other Surrounding Areas

Kissimmee, located southeast of Disney World, is a suburban area known for its abundance of hotel chains, chain restaurants, and residential housing. It’s also home to some fantastic private rentals that blend the comforts of home with the amenities of a resort. Popular options include Margaritaville and Reunion Resorts.

Whether you’re visiting with a small family or a larger group, rental homes in this area offer spacious accommodations and access to large pool complexes with slides and lazy rivers, on-site restaurants, spas, and golf courses. Some rental homes can even sleep up to 12 guests, making it a great option for multi-generational families or larger groups.

Kissimmee is a short drive to Disney World, making it convenient for those visiting the parks. Many hotels in the area offer complimentary shuttle services to and from the parks, although the frequency may not match that of Disney hotels.

For those planning a beach day or a trip to Busch Gardens Tampa, Kissimmee is also ideally located for a quick drive to Clearwater Beach along the Gulf Coast.

Things to Consider When Deciding to Stay at Disney Hotels in Orlando, or Go Off-Property

Here are a few things to consider when deciding whether it’s better to stay at a Disney hotel in Orlando or a non-Disney hotel during your visit to Disney World:

What do you plan to do during your vacation?

If you plan to spend most of your time in Disney World, staying at a Disney hotel on Disney property may make the most sense. You’ll be right in the middle of the magic with free transportation, exclusive perks, and a fully immersive Disney experience.

Do you plan to visit both Disney World and Universal Studios?

If you’re visiting both Disney World and Universal Studios, you have a few options. You can choose a hotel at either Disney World or Universal Studios and commute to the other park. Alternatively, you could split your stay between both resorts, allowing you to be closer to each park. The downside is that you’d have to pack up and switch hotels. Another option is to stay at a hotel between the two parks, but keep in mind transportation options may not be as convenient.

Other than the theme parks, what other activities do you plan to do on your Florida vacation?

If your trip includes more than just theme park visits, staying off-Disney property might be a better option. While Disney World Resort is an excellent home base for many activities in central Florida, there are other locations that may offer similar conveniences, depending on your plans.

Are you traveling with a very large group or for a family reunion?

Most Disney hotels accommodate up to 4 or 5 guests, and the largest Disney Villas can sleep up to 12. For larger groups or family reunions, there are plenty of off-property options that provide spacious accommodations. Many rental homes combine the space and comfort of a large home with resort amenities, such as pools, spas, and even concierge services—perfect for large families, reunions, or groups of friends.

To help plan the perfect vacation, Disney Travel Planners are available to make sense of all the options. Many offer free services when you book with them. To learn more, read Disney Travel Planners.

Conclusion

The benefits of staying at a Disney hotel versus a non-Disney hotel is one of the most common questions people ask when planning a Disney World vacation. For most visitors, we believe the answer is straightforward. However, if your trip to central Florida involves more than just Disney, or if factors like family size or budget come into play, staying at a Disney hotel may not be the best choice for you. We hope this article has provided you with helpful insights to make an informed decision.

A good Disney Travel Planner can help you decide what options are best for you and your family based on all the important factors. Our friends at Destination Magic do not just book Disney hotels in Orlando. Then can also help you book any non-Disney hotel including Universal Studios or SeaWorld vacation packages, or one of the fabulous vacation homes. For more information, click here.

For more helpful planning tips, check out these articles:

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Disney Hotel or Non-Disney Hotel: Which is Right for You?

Disney Hotels Orlando