Finding the Perfect Disney World Hotel
A Disney World vacation is a big deal — and a big investment! The hotel you choose can seriously impact your overall experience. You need to think about how close it is to the parks, what kind of amenities they offer, and, of course, your budget.
Ideally, you want a hotel that offers freebies, like a shuttle service and breakfast. Free shuttles save you money on transportation and take away the headache of driving and parking. And free breakfast? That’s a convenient and cheap way to start your day, leaving you more time to enjoy the parks.
That’s why we’ve put together this list of hotels near Disney World with free shuttle and breakfast. We’ll dive into the amenities, perks, and unique features of each hotel, so you can make the best choice for your Disney adventure. Let’s get started!
Why stay near Walt Disney World?
Staying close to the magic has some real advantages.
More time in the parks
When you’re close to the parks, you spend less time traveling. That means more time riding rides, meeting characters, and eating Mickey pretzels! It’s also easier to take a midday break. You can head back to your hotel for a nap or a swim and then return to the parks refreshed for the evening.
Easy access to Disney Springs
Many hotels near Walt Disney World also offer easy access to Disney Springs. Disney Springs has tons of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. It’s a great place to spend an evening if you want a break from the parks.
Extra perks
Some hotels offer perks like early theme park entry or other Disney-related benefits. When you’re booking, be sure to ask about package deals and special offers. You might be surprised at what you can find!
“Official” vs. “Partner” Hotels: What’s the difference?
When you’re looking for hotels near Disney World, you’ll likely see hotels described as “official,” “partner,” or just “near Disney World.” Here’s what those terms usually mean:
- Official Disney Hotels: These are on Disney property. They usually have the best perks, like Extra Magic Hours (though these can change, so double-check!) and the ability to book FastPass+ reservations earlier than other guests (again, subject to change).
- Disney Partner Hotels: These are close to Disney World and offer some Disney perks, but not as many as the official hotels. They’re often more affordable, though.
- Other Hotels Near Disney World: These are independent hotels that might offer shuttles and free breakfast, but they aren’t officially associated with Disney. These can be a great option if you’re on a tight budget.
Key Amenities to Look For
When you’re choosing a hotel near Disney World, there are a few key amenities that can make your trip easier and more enjoyable. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Complimentary Breakfast
Free breakfast can save you time and money. Some hotels offer a simple continental breakfast with pastries, cereal, and fruit. Others have a hot breakfast buffet with eggs, bacon, and sausage. Some might even offer made-to-order options. Consider your dietary needs and preferences when you’re choosing a hotel.
Free Shuttle Service
A free shuttle can save you the hassle of driving and parking at the parks. Check the shuttle schedule to make sure it lines up with your plans, and find out if you need to make reservations. Also, confirm that the shuttle goes to all the parks you want to visit, as well as Disney Springs.
Other Important Amenities
Don’t forget to check for other amenities that can enhance your stay, like pools and water slides, free Wi-Fi, and on-site dining options.
How to choose a hotel: Cost, convenience, and comfort
Picking the right hotel for your Disney vacation can feel overwhelming. Here’s how to narrow it down:
Budget
Figure out how much you can spend and then look for hotels in that price range. Be sure to factor in all the expenses, like room rates, resort fees, and taxes.
Location
Which Disney parks are you most interested in? Try to find a hotel that makes it easy to get to those parks. You might also want to be close to restaurants and stores.
Comfort and style
Read online reviews and browse photos of the hotels you’re considering. This will give you a better sense of what the hotel is like. Check out the size of the rooms, the amenities, and the overall style to make sure it’s a good fit for you.
Featured Hotels Near Disney World with Free Shuttle and Breakfast
Planning a Disney vacation can be a lot. To make it easier, I’ve compiled a list of hotels near Disney World that offer free shuttle service and complimentary breakfast. This can save you money on transportation and food, making your trip more affordable and convenient.
Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin
- Overview: These are official Disney hotels designed by architect Michael Graves. They’re known for their distinctive architecture and prime location.
- Amenities: You’ll find multiple pools, a variety of restaurants, and a full-service spa.
- Transportation: Boat and bus transportation is available to all Disney parks and Disney Springs.
- Address: 1200 Epcot Resorts Boulevard and 1500 Epcot Resorts Boulevard
- Phone: 407-934-4000
- Website: https://swandolphin.com/
Avanti International Resort
- Overview: This is a 3-star hotel located on International Drive.
- Amenities: Two swimming pools, a kids’ splash pad, and a fitness center. Breakfast is available, but check at the time of booking to make sure it’s complimentary.
- Transportation: Free scheduled shuttle service to Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld. Confirm the schedule when you check in.
- Address: 8738 International Drive
- Phone: (877) 821.3010
- Website: https://www.avantiresort.com
DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Orlando
- Overview: This all-suite hotel is located in the Disney Springs area.
- Amenities: Free breakfast, a pool, and on-site dining options.
- Transportation: Complimentary shuttle service to the Disney parks.
- Address: 2305 Hotel Plaza Blvd
- Phone: (407) 934-1000
- Website: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/mcofhdt-doubletree-suites-orlando/
Holiday Inn Orlando – Disney Springs
- Overview: This hotel is also located within the Disney Springs Resort Area.
- Amenities: You’ll find free breakfast, a pool, and several on-site dining options.
- Transportation: Continuous shuttle service to all the Disney theme parks.
- Address: 1805 Hotel Plaza Boulevard
- Phone: (407) 828-8888
- Website: https://www.hiorlando.com
Rosen Inn Lake Buena Vista
- Overview: This is a budget-friendly hotel near Disney World.
- Amenities: It features a pool, on-site dining, and free Wi-Fi. Breakfast is available for purchase, but check when booking to see if there are any complimentary options.
- Transportation: Scheduled shuttle service to the Disney parks.
- Address: Make sure to check their website to verify the address and contact information.
Staybridge Suites Orlando Royale Parc Suites
- Overview: This is an all-suite hotel with full kitchens, so you can save money by preparing some of your own meals.
- Amenities: Free breakfast, a pool, and an evening social hour with complimentary snacks and drinks.
- Transportation: Complimentary shuttle to the Disney parks.
- Address: Make sure to check their website to verify the address and contact information.
Wyndham Lake Buena Vista
- Overview: This is an official Disney Partner hotel.
- Amenities: Multiple pools, restaurants, and Disney character breakfasts.
- Transportation: Continuous shuttle service to the Disney theme parks.
- Address: Make sure to check their website to verify the address and contact information.
Making the Most of Your Hotel Stay
Here are a few tips to make the most of your hotel stay:
Booking Strategies
- Book directly with the hotel or a well-known travel agency. This will help you get the best rates and make sure rooms are available.
- Consider booking a package deal. Some hotels offer packages that include park tickets and other perks.
Planning Your Park Days
- Use the free shuttle! It’ll save you time and money on parking.
- Get to the parks early. You’ll avoid the crowds and long lines.
Taking Advantage of Hotel Amenities
- Take a break from the parks to enjoy the pool, gym, and other amenities.
- Ask the concierge for help with park tickets, restaurant reservations, and transportation.
In Closing
Choosing a hotel near Disney World that offers free shuttle service and complimentary breakfast can make your vacation more enjoyable and less stressful. When selecting a hotel, it’s important to consider your budget, location preferences, and the amenities that matter most to you and your travel companions.
To make your trip even more magical, plan ahead by making reservations for dining and attractions well in advance. Pack comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for Florida’s weather. Stay hydrated throughout the day, and don’t hesitate to take breaks when needed.
While planning is essential, it’s equally important to be flexible and prepared to adjust your plans if necessary. Embrace the unexpected moments, relax, have fun, and create memories that will last a lifetime. After all, the most important thing is to enjoy your time at the “Most Magical Place on Earth!”