Walt Disney World Good Neighbor Hotels We Love

While we adamantly endorse the concept of booking onsite accommodations at a Walt Disney World Resort-owned property, we also understand that there are reasons for why doing so may not always be a viable option. Perhaps your extended plans include visiting other Orlando area-based attractions in addition to days spent at Disney Parks, or perhaps recent global or personal issues have adversely affected your means for booking any upcoming reservations at specific hotels. Whatever the case, you should know that there are plenty of other wonderful options for where to stay all around the region, many of which get our seal of approval and are considered official “Good Neighbor Hotels” to Walt Disney World Resort. Here’s a compilation of these Good Neighbors that we love most!

  

10. Big name brands

There are a host of big name chains you may already be familiar with, and many have locations in central Florida and are even designated Disney Good Neighbor Hotels. Such hotels on this list include the following: various Best Western accommodations, options by Clarion, offers by Comfort Inn and Suites, varying Marriott Hotel Collection suggestions, a number of Hilton affiliates, Crowne Plaza lodging, Radisson hotels, Quality Inn, Embassy Suites, Sheraton, La Quinta, and many others, including such elite standings as Omni and Melia. For those who are part of any special card holder memberships that earn points on stays via affiliates, these brand name chains are surely the way to go when staying off Disney property, and fortunately many such Disney Good Neighbor Hotels even offer shuttle services to and from Disney Parks throughout the day (though fees may apply). Other perks associated with being a designated Disney Good Neighbor Hotel include onsite Walt Disney World Resort information available by helpful Guest Services (along with vacation planning assistance and even park ticket purchases) and a wide range of various room accommodations to choose from, whether you seek something small and intimate for just two people or an extended suite boasting more elaborate offerings.

9. staySky Suites I-Drive Orlando

This sweet suite option is a longtime favorite for families vacationing within the Orlando area, most specifically for those with designs on visiting Disney theme parks. Its convenient location, situated on Orlando-renowned International Drive, makes for commuting to nearby attractions a breeze, including all those famed shopping, dining, and entertainment venues surrounding the immediate area. Then of course there’s the easy access to both Universal Studios Orlando as well as Walt Disney World Resort that comes with staySky stays. Among the hotel’s myriad amenities is the offer for all-inclusive shuttle services to both theme parks, in addition to SeaWorld. Also note, for those intending to visit Orange County Convention Center for any reason, you will find this resort a most ideal option as well.

Staying here comes with plenty of onsite perks. First there are the rooms themselves, which are all non-smoking and come with numerous home-away-from-home essentials that include Internet and television among other things. All suites feature a separate bedroom and living room area, fully equipped kitchens with appliances and dishes and dining ware, bathrooms, and much, much more. Sleeping accommodations range from one-king bed offerings to two-queen options, with all selections featuring additional sleeping extras to suit groups of varying sizes. Specially designed suites that adhere to the guidance of the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) are also available. Other fabulous features to be enjoyed by guests staying here include use of an outdoor pool and hot tub, a fitness center, sports courts, laundry facilities, parking and valet services, grab ‘n go continental breakfast offerings, and Disney Theme Park ticket buying options via the aforementioned concierge.

8. Blue Tree Resort at Lake Buena Vista

From 16 acres of pristine beauty to a multitude of onsite offerings, discover for yourself why Blue Tree Resort at Lake Buena Vista is one of the leading family favorite hotels within the greater Orlando area. Their condo-like suites can’t be beat, with options that range in one and two-bedroom offerings as well as more spacious deluxe two-bedroom suites. All suites feature fully equipped kitchens complete with appliances, dishes, and utensils. Other in-room amenities include private screen-in porches with patio furniture, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, televisions and DVD players, dining tables and chairs, and so much more. Then there are the plentiful resort-wide amenities that pair with being a guest here, like complimentary parking, coin-operated laundry facilities, an onsite fitness center, game room, activity center, sports courts, onsite miniature golf, playgrounds, access to the onsite business center and all its offered services, and use of four outdoor swimming pools, a children’s pool, and two whirlpool spas. All rooms, facilities, and surrounding areas on the grounds are handicap accessible.

Staying here puts you in close proximity to all the other nearby area attractions as well. And through Blue Tree’s fabulous complimentary shuttle system, available to all guests, you get to experience everything. Daily destinations include rides to Walt Disney World Resort as well as Universal Studios, SeaWorld, and even Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores—a great place for shopping and dining. As a guest you also get discounted admission rates to a nearby area championship golf course. And in getting back to all things Disney—you will find the staff at Blue Tree both helpful and resourceful in assisting you with planning your park visits, purchasing advance tickets, and answering any and all questions you may have. For those traveling as a party of two, ask about the hotel’s special package deal that includes two overnight accommodations for two and your choice of tickets to any or all of the parks.

7. Grand Orlando Resort at Celebration

Having “grand” in the name is very telling of all that’s to be yours as a guest at this resort. Encompassing an expansive 20 acres of pristine scenic beauty along with having multitudes of onsite amenities and services at your fingertips surely constitutes a grand stay at a grand resort. But even expecting such grandeur beforehand won’t prepare you for just how superb your overall experience is sure to be.

There are of course the myriad onsite recreations for you and your family to enjoy while guests at this resort. These include various sports courts, a playground, designated activities area, fitness center, two hot tubs, and swimming in three on-premises pools. One is specially designed for children. Another fun and fascinating feature to mention about recreational swimming here is the waterfall and waterslide component. Other resort-wide amenities worth noting include onsite dining options (and lounges), laundry services, banquet/event facilities, and plenty of meeting spaces for those traveling via business. There’s also access to audio-visual equipment if needed. And if you’re doing a Disney vacation, this resort makes it easy and convenient with a devoted concierge to help you plan your park visits and purchase tickets. They even offer complimentary shuttle services to and from Walt Disney World Resort!

Accommodations here include plenty of options to suit families and groups of all sizes. Whether you’re looking for a room or a suite (or even a presidential suite), they’ve got you covered on all levels. Whatever you choose each option includes complimentary WI-FI and cable television, refrigerator, coffee maker, in-room safe, and all the other essentials.

6. Floridays Resort Orlando

This premium paradise is a Floridian favorite that celebrates the easygoing relaxation of summer days all year round. Nestled along 20 acres of lush tropical surroundings and plenty of onsite activities and amenities to boot, the tranquil haven you will come back to following a busy day at Disney or one of the other leading area resort attractions will pair perfectly in providing the blended balance between action and the rest you so seek.

Unlock a host of sweet suite possibilities. With two and three-bedroom options available, accommodations here are on average three times larger than those you’d find at most other Orlando area resorts (some are even four-times larger). Two-bedroom suites span a spacious 1,017 square feet with a capacity to sleep six, while three-bedroom designations are able to happily house up to eight at an impressive 1,306 square feet. Furthermore, each suite comes complete with full kitchen setups (appliances and utensils included), an additional dining area, luxury bathrooms, television and Internet, and many more features, both essential and extra. There are also several specially designed ADA suites with care and attention as the forefront considerations for those requiring special handicap needs. Also, because family vacationing should never be limited to just the human members in your group, Floridays Resort proudly welcomes in pets (two per room, up to 75lbs each).

While noted shuttle services make getting to Walt Disney World Resort and other surrounding area theme parks convenient, guests will also find much to enjoy right onsite while staying on Floridays Resort grounds. Swimming is, of course, among the most popular pastimes to take to here, with plenty of poolside recreations that include an expansive zero-entry featured pool, a second gazebo pool, therapeutic splash pool, specially designed splash and pay area for children, Jacuzzi hot tub, and even a designated sandy beach section for you to enjoy coastal style lounging and sand-play while poolside. For any refreshments you may so seek while swimming or beaching, there’s the convenient poolside bar and grill right there to serve you. Other attractive amenities to enjoy as a guest are the impressive game room, fitness center, business center, dining and shopping options, and plenty more. As mentioned earlier, shuttle services provide for a fast and easy commute to nearby area attractions, and the helpful concierge is right there for you when you need them to assist in any and all Disney Park visiting plans, ticket purchases, and other needs.  

5. Caribe Royale Orlando

When you make the decision to stay at Caribe Royale Orlando, you’re in for a most optimal experience within minutes of the famed Walt Disney World Resort. It’s all about reimagined quality here, blending the familiar creature comforts of home with some of the most lavish upscale amenities and onsite features to boast about. Discover for yourself an escape into a 60-acre tropical oasis that may feel far removed but is really in convenient commute to all the greater Orlando area has to offer.

Each and every accommodation by Caribe Royale Orlando is an elite offering, with options that range from one-bedroom suites to two-bedroom villas. Suites span Queen, King, and Deluxe King formats that all come complete with separate living room and sleeping areas, refrigerator and microwave, spacious bathrooms, television and Internet, and other noteworthy compliments. Villas include all these along with additional highlights that include fully equipped kitchens with appliances and utensils, washer/dryer, and more. Pet friendly rooms are also available to those bringing along additional members of the family that aren’t necessarily of the human variety.

Resort activities span a broad range of enticing options, some of which include a game room, fitness center, tennis and basketball courts, a 1.5 running trail, on-location recreational fishing, special family-friendly seasonal activities, movies under the stars, and much, much more. As is the case at most resorts, swimming and other poolside pleasantries stand supreme among onsite recreations with several cool Caribbean-inspired options to choose from. Impressive attributes in this category include three outdoor pools, a kiddie pool and play area, an exclusive private pool for villa guests, two hot tubs, an impressive 75-foot waterslide, and even private cabana rentals. Other resort features to take delight in while a guest here include an onsite gift shop, restaurants and other dining services, access to a well-equipped business center, a convention center, additional meeting spaces, and other guest comps. In addition, the stellar services Caribe Royale Orlando proudly provides to guests include, but are in no way limited to the following: valet and self-parking, car rentals, various scheduled shuttle services including courtesy transportation to Disney World and its affiliates, event and meeting coordination assistance, catering, and rentals on resort equipment whether its visual/audio necessities, bikes, or fishing and other recreational necessities. And in getting back to Disney, it goes without saying that the helpful staff is there to see to all your needs and offer any and all assistance in planning/ visiting, ticket purchases, reservations, and whatever else you may need.

4. Lake Buena Vista Resort Village & Spa

This all-suite resort in Orlando has plenty to brag about, with location, quality services, and a whole slew of onsite amenities ranking upmost on their list of defining attributes. While it’s true that being in such close proximity to Walt Disney World Resort can give any area accommodation boasting rights, the highlighted hallmarks at Lake Buena Vista Resort Village & Spa go above and beyond, bringing forth a supremely splendid stay and overall impeccable experience to all guests. Consider their commitment to comfort and convenience, for example, with accommodations ranging from one, two, and even four-bedroom condo-like suites. All options feature fully equipped kitchens (with appliances, utensils, and granite countertops), washer/dryer in-room units, private balconies, spacious bathrooms, separate dining/living/sleeping quarters, Internet, television, and so much more. It goes without saying that these roomy suites span a much greater square footage than typical Orlando area dwellings.  Also note that special ADA rooms are available as well.

Resort-wide amenities and services extend above and beyond the already enticing living quarters to bring forth a wonderful array of activities, recreations, and other extra perks. While there are so many to talk about, some of the most notable guest favorites include an onsite store/gift shop, 24-hour fitness center, on-location dining, and poolside recreations and swimming at the hotel’s famed zero-entry Pirates Plunge Themed Pool or quieter Relaxation Pool. Other cool pool delights to marvel in include Jacuzzi hot tubs, poolside loungers and hammocks, and refreshing food and beverage selections from Lani Luau Poolside Bar & Grille. Another renowned hotel highlight the resort has been famous for many years in the making is their onsite resident wellness spa/salon—Reflections Spa. While temporarily unavailable at present time, full-service offerings and specials have earned them plenty of praise over the years, including their popular packages for children—Princess Makeovers and Pirate Takeovers.

Additional services can also be added to enhance the overall staying experience while you are a guest here. Some of these include housekeeping, car rentals, and shuttle services to Walt Disney World Resort. As is always the case a helpful concierge and staff are on standby ready to help you make your Disney experience a magical one, by providing ticket and planning assistance.

3. Margaritaville Resort Orlando

What better way to spend your vacation than at a resort themed around vacation-mindedness? That’s how it is at Margaritaville Resort Orlando. The instant you arrive you’ll be treated to exotic island enticements all around, extending to the all-encompassing sights and sounds of the property’s tropical motif along with the complimentary welcome cocktail you will be presented with upon arrival. And the lush lobby views showcasing the resort’s lagoon pools provide the perfect preview into the resort’s multiple amenities, some of which include onsite beaches, special recreational clubs and activity offers for adults and kids/teens alike, a 24-hour fitness center, resort spa services, trolley services around the grounds, dining on location, nearby shopping, and walking distance proximity to many local area highlights. Two such places worth noting are the Promenade at Sunset Walk—outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment venue and H2O Live! Water Park right next door. While the perfect balance between comfort and upscale amenities makes staying here a vacation retreat in and of itself, you’ll discover that booking accommodations at Margaritaville along with plans to visit conveniently located Disney designations and other Orlando area resorts creates the ultimate essence of enchantment. And on that note, another one of the resort’s many perks includes shuttle services to Walt Disney World Resort as well as Universal Studios and SeaWorld. The wonderful concierge is, of course, there to help you with all necessary planning and ticket purchases along the way.

For lodging, Margaritaville offers guests the chance to stay in one of their renowned 186 luxury hotel rooms as well as options for booking stand alone separate cottage units right on resort grounds. Both come with their own set of perks and home away from home features with the cottages offering a townhouse kind of feel that can range from one to even eight bedroom offerings—perfect for extended families and groups of people. Hotel rooms all come with their own private balconies, but range significantly in size and room inclusions. There are even special suites and presidential suites available.

 

2. WorldQuest Orlando

Booking accommodations here will add the ultimate quest in condo-style luxury to your overall vacation. Its location just 10 minutes from Walt Disney World Resort is worth boasting about as it is, but with the supreme amenities WorldQuest Orlando delivers on, it’s no wonder why this place is among the top picks for Orlando area-based hotels. There are so many amenities worth noting here that it’s hard to know where to even begin. Just some crowning highlights include an onsite fitness center, 24-hour food mart, complimentary parking and shuttle services, a helpful and dedicated staff available around the clock, and so much more. Recreational diversions take center stage here with the most notable attribute of all being the immense outdoor heated swimming pool and other poolside interests. These also include a hot tub, tiki bar, chaise loungers, and everything else you need for endless fun in the sun!

The suites stand out from the crowd, offering guests resort luxury, elegance, and grace paired perfectly with comfort and convenience. While designations range in two and three offerings with many size distinctions to boot, it’s a given that each unit comes complete with its own private balcony as well as separate living area spaces and dining tables to enjoy in-room cooking. All necessary appliances and furnishings are part of the package as well, including refrigerators, washer/dryer setups, dishwasher, and more. And of course you’ll find the essentials like television and Internet along with other given expectations.

As briefly highlighted, a helpful staff is on standby ready to assist you in all your needs. This includes park planning visits to Walt Disney World Resort, tickets and reservations, and anything else your heart desires. And as noted previously, this resort offers complimentary shuttle services to Disney Parks as well.

1. The Grove Resort & Water Park Orlando

This next Good Neighbor Resort certainly emanates the magic of memory-making and vacation fun with its dual purpose of serving as both a stellar place to lodge as well as a destination in and of itself as a wondrous waterpark. All-suite accommodations range from one to three bedroom offerings and span a spacious occupant capacity that can sleep anywhere from four to eight at a time. Another noteworthy point to brag about is that each offering is, at the very least, three times larger than those found in typical Orlando area resort rooms and five times larger at the very most. In-room amenities feature all the essentials, like Internet and television, with two and three bedroom suites offering extra perks that also include fully equipped kitchens with appliances and even washer/dryer setups. Suites that meet with ADA compliancy standards are also available.

As briefly mentioned earlier, The Grove Resort & Water Park does dual work in serving as an exemplary Orlando area lodging spot as well as its own recreational destination. There’s no denying that the resort’s resident Safari Water Park is its top boasting point, with features that include waterslides, a FlowRider® Double surf simulator, a 695-foot lazy river, specially designated kids’ activity pool, a zero-entry family pool, available cabana rentals, and plenty more. Other onsite recreational endeavors to take to while on vacation here include an onsite Kids’ Activity Center with loads of fun around the clock and arcade games and endless family fun carnival-style delights at Flip Flop’s Family Fun Center. Other perks you’ll find on the grounds here consist of jogging trails, a quality fitness center, onsite dining, and spa services.

While there’s so much to experience throughout the Grove, keep in mind that this resort is conveniently located near many area destinations, offering up a whole host of other diversions to take in as well, from golf to fishing, or whatever else you choose. And being just six miles from Walt Disney World Resort makes this enticing haven an even more premium pursuit. As can be expected, you will find helpful staff at the front des to assist in all your park planning and ticket purchases. And with daily shuttle services that take you straight into the heart of the Walt Disney World Resort, you’re all set to make magical memories all around.

If you can’t book accommodations on Walt Disney World Resort property then we highly recommend staying at any of these friendly suggestions. In addition to all the delightful designated Good Neighbor Resorts we’ve covered, remember there are also other honorary resort options that are as Disney as you can get without being official Walt Disney World Resort accommodations. These include The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resorts along with the Four Seasons Resort Orlando. What’s more, guests staying at these get to utilize many of the same great Disney Resort guest perks. While Disney vacations are forever magical, your choice on where to stay during your vacation can extend the overall enchantment even further beyond your wildest dreams.