The 5 Best Hotels to Stay Near Disneyland (So You Can Sleep, Sip, & Magic-Hop)
- Jillian
- Sep 26
- 4 min read
If you’re planning a Disneyland getaway with your family (and maybe a well-earned glass of wine once the kids are asleep), the hotel you choose can make or break the trip. You want to be close enough to avoid stroller-dragging marathons, comfortable enough for those essential afternoon naps, and bonus points if the hotel throws in free breakfast or a pool to burn off post-churro energy.
Hot take: I honestly don’t think staying at one of the three official Disney hotels is worth the price tag. Yes, they’re fun and themed, but for what you pay, you can stay steps from the park with more space, free perks, and money left over for Dole Whips (or, let’s be real, cocktails).
Here are my favorite hotel picks near Disneyland that check the boxes without draining your budget.
The Anaheim Hotel — Our Top Pick
Why it made my list: It strikes the perfect balance between proximity, amenities, and style.
Location: Just across the street from Disneyland Resort. You can literally stroll (or waddle, post churros) to the gates.
Vibe & Design: Think retro-chic meets modern resort. The interiors were recently refreshed, mixing mid-century modern touches with cozy, family-friendly finishes.
Amenities: Big outdoor pool (reportedly the largest in the Anaheim Resort area) with cabanas, games in the courtyard, on-site dining, and even a Topgolf Swing Suites on property.
Rooms: From executive king rooms to two-king configurations and kid-friendly suites, they’ve got layouts for families of all sizes.
Why it works for moms: You get to be close enough to nap mid-day and dash back to the hotel without losing a chunk of your time. The walkability is gold when you’ve got little legs (or tired legs). Also, fewer car rides = less stress.
Why it made my list: If you’re looking for a little space from the kids, there’s a room option with bunk beds, a sectional sofa, and a TV, separated from the parents’ bed area by a door.
Why it stands out: It’s in walking distance to Disneyland and designed with families in mind.
Key perks: Free hot breakfast buffet, suites with mini-fridge & microwave, heated pool, and complimentary WiFi.
Distance / walkability: Roughly 8–10 minute walk depending on which park gate.
Good for moms because: The breakfast saves you time and money, and having suites (or rooms with kitchenette features) means you can do simple food prep or store snacks.
Why it made my list: Its free hot breakfast, spacious suites, family-friendly amenities, and unbeatable convenience near Disneyland, all at a great value.
Why it stands out: A solid “Good Neighbor” hotel with value, comfort, and family-friendly amenities. (ihg.com)
Key perks: Free breakfast, pools, and modern suite options with mini-fridges and microwaves.
Distance / walkability: A 5–10 minute walk to Disneyland and Downtown Disney.
Good for moms because: The included breakfast and suite-style rooms make mornings less stressful and give families extra space to relax after a long day.
Why it made my list: Its unbeatable location right across from Disneyland, family-sized rooms, and a rooftop spot to catch the fireworks without the crowds.
Why it stands out: Directly across from Disneyland, it’s one of the most convenient options for families. (grandlegacyhotel.com)
Key perks: Modern rooms, rooftop pool with park views, on-site dining, and spacious suites.
Distance / walkability: Literally steps from Disneyland’s entrance.
Good for moms because: You can easily return to your room for naps, snacks, or a quick bathroom break without losing any park time.
Why it made my list: It’s about as close as you can possibly stay to the park entrance.
Why it stands out: It’s a Disney “Good Neighbor Hotel” and literally across the pedestrian walkway to the Disneyland® Resort.
Key perks: Rooms include microwaves, mini-fridges, in-room safes, and there are fully-equipped kitchen suites.
Distance / walkability: A 5-minute walk to the main entrances of Disneyland / Disney California Adventure.
Good for moms because: You can head back mid-day to rest or refresh (especially with kids). The kitchen suites are a bonus for late-night snackers or baby meals.
What to Look for (Mom Checklist)
When you’re choosing, here’s what I personally consider:
Walking / shuttle distance: You don’t want to waste precious morning time driving or waiting for shuttles.
Quiet rooms / good insulation: Parks are fun, but your sleep matters.
Pool and downtime spaces: A good pool or courtyard lets kids decompress without leaving the hotel.
Flexible room layouts: Two beds, suites, connecting rooms — whatever fits your crew.
Extras & perks: On-site dining, ticket concierge, early breakfast. Those conveniences add up.
Final Thoughts (From a Mom Who’s Done This)
Staying close to Disneyland doesn’t have to drain your budget, but it does require a little strategy. The key is finding a hotel that balances comfort, convenience, and value, whether that means free breakfast, a quick walk to the gates, or extra space for tired little ones to crash. If your goal is to cut down on the stress and soak up as much Disney magic as possible, any of these hotels will set you up for a smoother, more memorable trip.
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