Top Hotels Near Disneyland: Your Guide to On- and Off-Site Stays

Once you've decided to visit the Happiest Place on Earth, a key decision is where to stay during your time in Anaheim, California. You have several options on Disney property, plus many off-property alternatives that are also worth considering.

If you’re unsure about where to book your stay near Disneyland, you're not alone. Alongside park tickets, accommodation is one of the biggest expenses for any Disney trip, so it’s essential to strike the right balance between cost, benefits, and location. If you plan to use hotel or credit card points to offset some of your Disneyland expenses, it’s also important to evaluate the value of your potential stay when choosing your options.

When planning a Disneyland visit, should you opt for a Disney-owned hotel on-site? Or would an off-property hotel, whether independently managed or part of a specific brand, be a better choice?

Having stayed at Disneyland numerous times with my family, both on-site and off-site, we’ve gathered valuable insights on where to find the best value and which perks are most beneficial for families. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences between on-property and off-property hotels, along with our top recommendations.

On-Site vs. Off-Site Hotels at Disneyland

How can you determine if an on-property or off-property hotel at Disneyland suits your needs?

For families who are used to the hotel choices at Walt Disney World, it's crucial to recognize the significant differences at Disneyland. Essentially, choosing between on-property and off-property accommodations at Disneyland involves a different set of considerations compared to what you’d experience at Walt Disney World.

I generally prefer to stay on-site at Walt Disney World due to the benefits included and the close proximity to the parks. However, during my trips to Disneyland, I often choose to stay off-site. While there are advantages to staying at a Disneyland resort hotel, the value of those perks doesn't always justify the higher costs.

Disneyland covers a significantly smaller area, so many off-property hotels are just as conveniently located to the parks as some on-property options. (If you’re curious about which Disneyland hotel offers direct access to a park, keep reading.)

There are numerous hotels within walking distance of Disneyland's entrance. You don't have to compromise on location or incur transportation costs when opting for a non-Disney hotel.

Moreover, there tend to be fewer perks for guests staying on-property at Disneyland compared to those at Walt Disney World. Currently, the primary advantage for Disneyland hotel guests is the ability to enter one of the two theme parks 30 minutes early each day.

This advantage allows you to enjoy a few attractions without waiting in long lines, but it does mean you’ll need to rise early to take full advantage of it, as that 30-minute head start typically begins between 7:30 and 8 a.m. If you're an early riser, this could be a compelling reason to stay on-site.

Tips for securing the best rates at Disneyland hotels

Staying at any official Disneyland hotel comes with a price tag. Unlike Disney World, which has three accommodation tiers—Deluxe, Moderate, and Value—Disneyland's hotels do not have these classifications. Consequently, all three on-site hotels are often priced similarly to Deluxe options at Disney World. If you’re on a tight budget, a Disney hotel stay may not be realistic.

If your travel plans are flexible, always check for seasonal promotions directly from Disney. Similar to Walt Disney World, Disneyland frequently offers discounts ranging from 10% to 30% on its on-site hotels during off-peak seasons. It’s crucial to book as soon as these deals become available.

To help reduce expenses for on-site accommodations, consider renting Disney Vacation Club points to stay at the new Villas at Disneyland Hotel or Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa.

You can also utilize points or miles from a credit card to fund your stay. The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card allows cardholders to redeem miles at a straightforward rate of 1 cent per mile. In contrast, the Bilt Mastercard® (see rates and fees) lets you use points for Disney hotels through the Bilt travel portal at a rate of 1.25 cents per point.

Choosing off-property accommodations can provide even more ways to save, thanks to various hotel and points programs. As many travelers aim to redeem hotel points for Disneyland and Southern California trips, it’s becoming increasingly challenging to maximize point value at numerous properties. Do the calculations, as paying cash or using cash-equivalent points may offer better value.

Top on-property hotels at Disneyland

While I generally choose to stay off-site at Disneyland for budgetary reasons, not every family may share that preference. Staying within the Disney bubble can be a delightful experience in its own right.

I truly appreciate the three on-site hotels at Disneyland: Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, the Disneyland Hotel, and the recently updated Pixar Place Hotel (previously known as Disney's Paradise Pier Hotel).

All three of these hotels feature unique decor, themed swimming pools, and exceptional Disney service. They are conveniently located within walking distance of the parks. For families who plan to take full advantage of the extra benefits, paying a premium to stay at a Disney property can be worthwhile for a special trip.

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Disneyland Hotel

The Disneyland Hotel is a timeless classic that opened in 1955, the same year the original Disneyland park launched. However, it also boasts some of the newest accommodations in Anaheim if you opt for the newly built tower.

This hotel boasts arguably the best pool area among the three on-site options, featuring multiple waterslides. Additionally, you can indulge in Dole Whips and enjoy dinner at Trader Sam's—a lively tiki bar that comes alive with certain drink orders—without ever leaving the hotel premises.

In terms of accommodations, the hotel offers a range of options including standard rooms, club-level rooms, and themed suites, such as a Pirates of the Caribbean suite and a Mickey Mouse penthouse. A new tower featuring Disney Vacation Club accommodations opened on September 28, 2023. The Villas at Disneyland Hotel offer various sizes, from cozy rooms for two to spacious two-story penthouses for up to 12 guests.

Room rates at the Disneyland Hotel typically range from $500 to $700 per night. If you opt for a club-level room or suite, particularly one offering a premium view of Downtown Disney, be prepared for a significant price hike.

Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa

Among the three Disneyland hotels, this one boasts the closest proximity to the parks, making it the priciest option. Standard room rates generally start at $700 per night and can reach or exceed $1,000 during peak times.

A major highlight of the Grand Californian is its exclusive access to Disney California Adventure Park. With a private entrance connected to the park, you can often enter within just a few minutes.

Moreover, guests can indulge in a variety of luxurious amenities, such as a spa, room service, and exclusive cabana rentals beside two of the hotel’s three pools. It’s the ultimate option for those seeking a touch of luxury and proximity to the parks, all without financial worries.

Pixar Place Hotel

In early 2024, a significant renovation concluded, introducing a completely new design for the venue formerly known as Disney's Paradise Pier Hotel. Now reimagined as the Pixar Place Hotel, it features rooms themed around beloved characters like the Incredibles, offers a meet-and-greet with Bing Bong from "Inside Out," and boasts a rooftop pool area complete with a "Finding Nemo"-themed waterslide and splash pad.

A noteworthy feature of the hotel is its exclusive pathway and entrance leading directly into the Paradise Gardens section of Disney California Adventure Park. While it’s not as close or direct as the Grand Californian’s entrance, it significantly reduces walking time from the parks. Additionally, the hotel has recently introduced a new concierge lounge.

Although Pixar Place remains the most budget-friendly option among Disneyland's hotels, the recent renovation has naturally brought about increased prices compared to a few years ago, with room rates usually starting around $450 per night.

Top off-property hotels for Disneyland.

For those on a tighter budget, there are numerous off-property hotels located near Disneyland.

I personally favor the hotels along Harbor Boulevard that face the Disneyland pedestrian entrance. Given the layout of the crosswalks and highways, these hotels are the most walkable options to Disneyland.

That said, there are alternative accommodation choices available, including those that can be reached from the parks via a hotel shuttle or a quick ride on Anaheim Resort Transportation, the local transit service.

Fairfield Anaheim Resort

The Fairfield Anaheim Resort is the hotel my family often chooses for our Disneyland trips. Situated on Harbor Boulevard, it’s just under a 10-minute walk from the parks. The rooms have been recently updated, with many featuring vibrant and themed decor.

Unlike most Fairfield Inns, this location does not provide complimentary breakfast; however, there’s a McDonald's next door that has become my favorite spot for a quick and affordable meal before heading to the parks.

Room rates at this Marriott location typically range from $200 to $250 per night. Alternatively, you can use 30,000 to 59,000 Marriott Bonvoy points to book a standard room.

Since there are occasions when you can secure a room for fewer than 35,000 points, this hotel is a favorite among holders of the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card or the Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card. These cards provide a complimentary night valued up to 35,000 points each year on the account anniversary. For nights priced above 35,000 points, you can add up to 15,000 points to your certificate to cover the difference.

Courtyard Anaheim Theme Park Entrance

The Courtyard Anaheim Theme Park Entrance stands out as one of the finest and nearest off-property hotels for families. It features a full water park on-site, making its pool area comparable to the best hotel pools on property (like the Monorail Pool at the Disneyland Hotel). Additionally, it’s about a 10-minute walk to Disneyland.

The rooms here are a significant upgrade from typical Courtyard accommodations; their unique layouts provide great value for larger families who might otherwise need to book two separate rooms. Every room accommodates at least six guests, with standard configurations offering two queen beds and a bunk bed with two twin beds. The rooms also include an extra-large bathroom featuring both a shower and a tub-shower combination.

Given its prime location and superior rooms and amenities, the cash rates at this property tend to be higher than what you might expect at other Courtyard locations or many other Marriott hotels in Anaheim. Standard room rates typically range from $200 to $550 per night. Rooms available for points are less frequent, and when they are, they come at a relatively high redemption cost of 73,000 to 98,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

The Westin Anaheim Resort

As one of the newer choices in the area, The Westin Anaheim Resort (opened in 2021) is perfectly located for theme park excursions. Situated at the intersection of Disneyland Drive and West Katella Avenue, it lies just behind the Pixar Pier section of Disney California Adventure Park. You can even enjoy a lovely view of the Incredicoaster from the hotel’s rooftop.

Although The Westin Anaheim was primarily designed with the convention crowd in mind, its club lounge, on-site dining options, and proximity to Disneyland also cater well to families eager to utilize their Marriott points and benefits during their Disney visit. Additionally, select standard rooms are equipped with two queen beds and a shower-tub combination, ensuring a comfortable stay while on vacation.

Depending on your stay dates, expect to pay between $270 and over $450 per night for a standard room here. If you prefer to use points, you can redeem between 52,000 and 90,000 Marriott Bonvoy points for a basic room.

JW Marriott, Anaheim Resort

A more recent addition, the JW Marriott, Anaheim Resort opened its doors in 2020. While it doesn't feature the typical Disneyland hotel perks (like waterslides and character-themed rooms), it provides an opportunity to use points and experience a bit of luxury after a long day at the parks.

This hotel boasts a rooftop pool with cabanas and guest rooms decorated in a neutral color scheme, offering either one king or two queen beds. Additionally, you'll find stylish dining options, including an Italian steakhouse and a rooftop bar with sweeping city views.

The hotel exudes a relaxed yet upscale atmosphere. If you're weighing whether this is the ideal hotel for your Disneyland trip, keep in mind that its location isn't the most convenient for a park-centric experience. Map it out and choose wisely.

This JW Marriott features room rates that are more budget-friendly. To book a room, you can expect to pay between $215 and $400 per night or use 50,000 to 90,000 Marriott Bonvoy points. This is often less expensive than the Courtyard, primarily due to its location and the absence of a water park.

Cambria Hotel & Suites Anaheim Resort Area

Another recent addition to the lineup of points-friendly hotels near Disneyland, the Cambria Hotel & Suites Anaheim Resort Area boasts a variety of amenities and competitive rates that somewhat compensate for its less-than-ideal walkability to the parks.

A wide range of accommodation options is available, including standard rooms featuring two showers and a tub, as well as suites that can accommodate up to 11 guests. Guests can also enjoy an on-site water park with 30,000 square feet of waterslides, play areas, and more. There's even a movie wall for poolside screenings, along with a complimentary hot breakfast served daily.

Room rates at this Choice Hotels-affiliated location range from $125 to $400 per night (often below $200 when booked a few weeks ahead) or 25,000 to 35,000 Choice Privileges points per night. If you choose to redeem points, keep in mind that Choice frequently allows booking various types of accommodations at the same price, potentially letting you secure a one-bedroom suite for the cost of a standard room.

Hyatt House at Anaheim Resort/Convention Center

Located near Anaheim's convention center, this property is about a 15-minute walk from Disneyland's entrance, making it conveniently close enough to avoid needing transportation on theme park days.

The Hyatt House at Anaheim Resort/Convention Center is a smart pick for families thanks to its typical Hyatt House layout: Standard rooms feature microwaves and either two queen beds or a king bed with a sleeper sofa. Suite options include one-bedroom suites with full kitchens and family suites with bunk beds. As with other Hyatt House locations, all guests enjoy complimentary daily breakfast.

While standard room rates can reach up to $400 per night, you’ll typically find that staying here will cost you in the low $200s. Alternatively, you can use 12,000 to 18,000 World of Hyatt points for your stay.

You might consider the nearby Hyatt Place at Anaheim Resort/Convention Center, which offers slightly lower cash rates (though not for points). However, its location is not as favorable, making the Hyatt House a better overall value. If you have any Hyatt Category 1-4 award certificates from the World of Hyatt Credit Card, you might want to use them for your stay.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Anaheim Resort Area

This IHG-affiliated hotel is approximately a 15-minute walk from Disneyland and offers numerous amenities that cater to families. The Holiday Inn Express & Suites Anaheim Resort Area features a complimentary breakfast buffet and a modest pool complete with a small splash pad for younger children. Additionally, every guest room includes a minifridge, microwave, bathtub, and a sofa bed.

Standard room rates typically range from $200 to $350 per night, while award nights will cost you between 34,000 and 86,000 IHG One Rewards points per night. Recently, this hotel has reduced some of its points prices, potentially providing more value for upcoming stays compared to other hotels in the area.

If you choose to use IHG points for your stay, keep in mind that the fourth award night is complimentary for guests who hold the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card.

Howard Johnson Anaheim Hotel & Water Playground

Many hotel loyalty program users may overlook Wyndham Rewards, but the Howard Johnson Anaheim Hotel & Water Playground is a property that deserves your attention.

The hotel has recently renovated several buildings, so if you choose to stay in one of the newly updated rooms, you’ll experience a midcentury modern style that feels both fresh and contemporary.

For those looking to fully embrace the property's retro charm, the hotel's new House of the Retro Future Suite is particularly charming. Be sure to explore the on-site water playground, which is one of the top family-friendly options within walking distance of the parks, especially for families with young children.

At the HoJo Anaheim, room rates typically range from $200 to $400 per night, making it competitively priced compared to other off-property selections by TPG. Alternatively, you could use 30,000 Wyndham Rewards points to cover a night’s stay.

All rooms across the various buildings (including the newly renovated ones that cost more when booked with cash) are subject to the same award rate. Therefore, it’s advisable to use your points for the newer rooms whenever possible.

If you're keen on staying here, be aware that this hotel has a dedicated fan base due to its long-standing reputation. It often fills up before other similar hotels in the vicinity.

Home2 Suites by Hilton Anaheim Resort

Nestled just behind the Courtyard and only a short two-minute stroll from the park, the Home2 Suites by Hilton Anaheim Resort is a newer property that often flies under the radar. With rooms accommodating up to six guests and equipped with kitchenettes, plus access to a complimentary hot breakfast and a vibrant splash pad and pool, it's a great option for families or larger groups.

Room rates typically range from $200 to $350 per night. If you're considering using Hilton Honors points for a Disney getaway, you can redeem 60,000 Hilton Honors points for one night’s stay.

Keep in mind that the hotel comprises two properties, as the Hilton Garden Inn Anaheim Resort is also located here. Prices for both hotels are generally similar, with the Home2 Suites often providing a bit more value for the same price on most dates. As always, it's wise to compare rates for your specific travel dates.

Residence Inn at Anaheim Resort/Convention Center

Similar to the nearby Courtyard, the Residence Inn at Anaheim Resort/Convention Center exceeds typical expectations for a standard Residence Inn among Marriott fans. The property boasts a fresh, clean ambiance with modern decor and a range of amenities that go beyond the usual offerings. Just be cautious not to mix it up with a similarly named Residence Inn located in Garden Grove, California, which is not within walking distance.

The hotel features several suite options, but the standout for families is the Kids Suite. This two-bedroom, two-bathroom suite showcases vibrant and colorful decor, along with a unique bunk bed setup. The rooftop pool and splash pad are also major highlights.

Standard studio suites accommodating four guests typically cost between $215 and $400 per night. For those redeeming Marriott points, rates range from 46,000 to 73,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night. This means you can occasionally use an 85,000-point free night certificate, like the one provided annually with the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card, for a stay here.

Keep in mind that one-bedroom suites are often available at the same points redemption rate as studio suites, even though the cash prices are typically higher. This means you might find extra value when using points for your stay.