A family trip to Disney World is a dream vacation for millions of travelers every year. But while the parks themselves deliver the magic, the hotel you choose can make or break the experience. Staying in the right family-friendly hotel near Disney World means easy park access, spacious rooms, fun kid-friendly amenities, and — most importantly — less stress for parents.
With hundreds of hotels around the Orlando area, finding the perfect match can be overwhelming. In this guide, we’ll break down the best family-friendly hotels near Disney World in 2025, highlight what makes them special, and share tips for saving money on your booking.
Why Choose a Family-Friendly Hotel Near Disney World?
Family-friendly hotels are designed with parents and kids in mind. Beyond just a bed to sleep in, these hotels offer:
- Spacious suites with kitchenettes or multiple bedrooms.
- Kids’ activities like game rooms, pools with water slides, and character meet-and-greets.
- Shuttle services to Disney parks, saving you the hassle of parking.
- On-site dining that caters to children with flexible menus.
- Budget options that make a Disney trip more affordable.
Considering that an average family of four can spend upwards of $5,000 on a Disney vacation, picking the right hotel can ease both the financial and logistical load.
Best Family-Friendly Hotels Near Disney World
1. Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
- Why families love it: Themed rooms based on The Lion King, Finding Nemo, and Cars create an immersive experience for kids.
- Amenities: Largest pool in all of Disney World, free transportation to the parks, food courts with kid-friendly menus.
- Good to know: Slightly pricier than off-site hotels, but the convenience and Disney magic are worth it.
2. Holiday Inn Resort Orlando Suites – Waterpark
- Why families love it: Affordable rooms and a huge on-site waterpark with slides and splash zones.
- Amenities: Free shuttle to Disney, family suites with kitchenettes, arcade games.
- Good to know: Great balance between budget and fun, but book early as it sells out fast.
3. Hilton Orlando Buena Vista Palace
- Why families love it: Walking distance to Disney Springs, which offers dining and shopping.
- Amenities: Float lagoon pool, kids’ activities, spacious suites for larger families.
- Good to know: Perfect for families who want entertainment beyond the parks.
4. Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek
- Why families love it: Surrounded by beautiful lakes and minutes from Disney.
- Amenities: Five pools, lazy river, mini-golf, and a pirate-themed kids’ activity center.
- Good to know: Offers both fun for kids and a touch of luxury for parents.
5. Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort
- Why families love it: Ultimate luxury with family-friendly touches.
- Amenities: Kids’ camp included in the stay, Explorer Island water park, and Disney character breakfasts.
- Good to know: Expensive, but ideal for families who want comfort without compromise.
Budget-Friendly Hotels for Families
Not every family wants to spend thousands on a luxury stay. Here are some reliable, affordable options close to Disney:
- Best Western Lake Buena Vista – Comfortable and affordable, with free breakfast for families on the go.
- Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Orlando Lake Buena Vista – Budget-friendly with shuttle service included.
- SpringHill Suites Orlando at Flamingo Crossings – Spacious family rooms, complimentary breakfast, and good value.
These options may not come with Disney characters in the lobby, but they provide everything families need at half the cost.
Tips for Saving Money on Family Hotels in Orlando
- Book early – Orlando is one of the busiest tourist destinations in the world. Rates spike closer to peak travel dates.
- Travel in off-peak months – September and January tend to be less crowded and more affordable.
- Look for free perks – Hotels with free breakfast or free shuttles can save families $50+ a day.
- Bundle packages – Sites like Expedia often discount hotels when bundled with flights or car rentals.
- Use rewards points – Marriott, Hilton, and IHG loyalty points can offset big costs for multi-night stays.
What to Consider When Choosing a Family Hotel
- Location: Closer hotels reduce travel time and tantrums.
- Room size: Suites or multi-room accommodations are a lifesaver for families.
- Dining options: Look for kid-friendly menus and affordable buffets.
- Pools & activities: On-site entertainment helps balance park days with downtime.
- Shuttle services: Essential for families who don’t want the hassle of driving and parking at Disney.
On-site hotels offer convenience and Disney perks like early park entry, but off-site hotels are often cheaper with bigger rooms and more amenities for families.
Budget hotels start around $120 per night, mid-range options range from $180–$250, while luxury resorts like Four Seasons can cost $600+ per night.
Most major hotels near Disney offer free shuttle services to the parks, though some budget hotels may charge a small fee.
Book at least 4–6 months in advance, especially if traveling during peak holiday seasons like spring break or Christmas.
Yes, vacation rentals like Airbnb can provide extra space and kitchens, but they don’t usually offer free shuttles or on-site kids’ activities like hotels do.
Conclusion
When planning a Disney World trip, the right family-friendly hotel makes all the difference. Whether you want immersive Disney-themed resorts, budget-friendly hotels with shuttles, or luxurious stays with water parks, Orlando offers plenty of options.
For families, it’s all about finding the right balance of comfort, location, and price. With early booking, smart site comparisons, and a focus on amenities, your Disney vacation can be both magical and affordable.