Living in northern California, but annual passes to various SoCal theme parks over the years, means that we have stayed at a lot of hotels. Many have been hotels near Disneyland. There are favorites we’ve booked stays at time and time again, and some locations where once was enough. There are so many hotels in the Anaheim Resort area though, that it can be overwhelming. Don’t worry! Today I’m sharing a few of our favorite family-friendly hotels in Anaheim, California. Keep in mind, this list does not include all the hotels, or even all the best hotels, just some of our favorites. Think of it like a “best of the best” list. even better, I’ve included a little quiz so you can decide which of these hotels near Disneyland would be best for your family. Links contain affiliates, all opinions are my own, based off our own experiences.
what are the hotels near Disneyland?
Look at any map on a hotel app of the Anaheim area and you will be overwhelmed by the options of accommodations. There are literally hundreds–and that’s not even counting all the vacation rental homes in the area. It can be a little confusing, so here is some more details about accommodations near Disneyland.
hotels of the Disneyland Resort
Unlike Disney World, which offers more than two dozen Resort hotels ranging from budget to luxury accommodations, Disneyland has just three.
Disneyland Hotel
Built in 1955, a few months after Disneyland opened, the Disneyland hotel was actually not originally owned by Disney. This hotel is full of Disneyland history and fun facts–for example, did you know the Monorail used to take you right to the hotel? The Disneyland hotel has nearly 1,000 guest rooms and two pools, including the iconic Monorail-themed waterslides. It also features Goofy’s Kitchen, the only character dining option at Disneyland that is open for every mealtime–and no theme park ticket is required!
| Read: Which Character Dining is Better? Goofy’s Kitchen or Storyteller’s Cafe? |
Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
The Grand Californian Hotel & Spa is the highest luxury option at the Disneyland Resort. Opened in 2001, this hotel is in the heart of Downtown Disney, and adjacent to Disney California Adventure Park. In fact, it has its own private entrance into the park! The architecture and decor is classic Craftsman style and even if you’re not staying on-site, a walk through the lobby is a treat. For outdoor recreation there are multiple pools inspired by California’s redwood forests, and a water slide. The Grand Californian also offers two options for character dining, although both are only open as character dining for breakfast, and the rest of the day they’re regular dining.
Pixar Place Hotel
Bought from another company in 1995 and formerly the Paradise Pier Hotel, the Pixar Place Hotel went through a major renovation and was rebranded in early 2024. With just under 500 guest rooms, this is the smallest and most budget-friendly hotel at the Disneyland Resort. Pixar Place Hotel has incredible Pixar movie theming throughout, including in their two pool areas and kiddie splash zone, complete with a Finding nemo-inspired water slide. On nights when Disneyland fireworks light up the sky, you can even watch the show from the third story pool deck with synchronized music playing.
good neighbor hotels
Although there are only three Disneyland Resort hotels, there are over 50 Good Neighbor Hotels. What’s a Good Neighbor Hotel? These are quality accommodations that are located near the Disneyland Resort area, at a variety of price points for every budget. You can purchase ticket and hotel bundle packages from Disneyland’s website, or park tickets from the lobby of these hotels. However, I always recommend planning your vacation through Get Away Today for the best deals. Make sure you use LITTLEDOVE for an additional discount on select packages!
| Read: Advice and Park Routes for Rope Drop |
best hotels near Disneyland for YOU quiz:
If you’re not sure where to start when looking for hotels near Disneyland don’t worry, I’ve picked four that we love to narrow it down for you. I’ve even come up with a handy quiz so you can pick the right Disney accommodations for your family! Just answer each question (there are only 5) and tally up your results at the end!
5 questions
1. How important is location for you?
A. Our family needs to be as close as possible to Disneyland. We are rope drop to park close, and need to be able to walk back during the day for naps or pool time.
B. We want to be close enough to see fireworks from the hotel! Monorail sightings are a plus, too.
C. Anything under a mile is walkable for us, it’s worth the walk if the hotel is nice enough or a good enough deal.
D. It’s nice to be close, but we really don’t mind driving or taking a shuttle either. As long as it’s still convenient to get to the parks.
2. How do you feel about breakfast?
A. We can bring some protein bars or pick up something in the park for breakfast.
B. It’s a plus if the hotel has a grab ‘n go option or site or is near fast food.
C. An included breakfast is a must for our family!
D. As long as the rooms are big enough so we have room to make our own breakfasts before heading out.
3. Speaking of rooms, what kind of room size do you need?
A. As long as the beds are comfy, we don’t care if the room is on the smaller side–after all, we’ll be at the parks or the pool all day!
B. I need the option for connecting rooms for our family, but if they’re smaller that’s fine.
C. We need lots of space to spread out. Separate sleeping areas to divide older and younger kids is a plus too.
D. We don’t mind all being in one room, but we definitely need lots of space!
4. Let’s talk about POOLS!
A. It doesn’t need to be fancy, but lots of space for swimming, a hot tub, and preferably a splash area for little ones!
B. A good pool area for the little ones that’s opened year round is a must.
C. Other than Disneyland, the pool is the most important part of our family’s vacation. We want something for the whole family–a big pool, a kiddie pool ad splashpad, and some major waterslides.
D. A basic and pretty pool area is fine, just a nice spot to cool off on a hot day, or unwind in a hot tub.
5. What else is important to you?
A. It’s such a bonus if I don’t have to leave my hotel for a great meal. Delicious on-site dining makes or breaks a place for me!
B. I love when a hotel has a variety of rooms and suites available. I want to know I have options of room amenities and size.
C. Parking in the Anaheim Resort area is rough, I want lots of secure parking on-site so I don’t have to worry about my car!
D. I want adult-only spaces to enjoy when I’m not with my kids–it’s my vacation too!
What your choices reveal:
Mostly As: Grand Legacy at the Park
Grand Legacy at the Park is on Harbor Boulevard literally across the street from California Adventure Park. Not only is it super close and a quick walk, but there’s a large pool area you can enjoy for a mid-day break. No breakfast is available, but it does boast the original Anaheim rooftop restaurant and bar, The Fifth, which is high in demand. Read our full review in this blog post.
Mostly Bs: Howard Johnson Anaheim Hotel and Water Playground
The Howard Johnson Anaheim Hotel and Water Playground is another great option that’s close to Disneyland Park. There are two water areas, one in particular that’s geared towards little ones with a pirate-themed splash area. Some rooms are recently renovated and there’s an on-site market for basic needs. Read our full review in this blog post.
Mostly Cs: Cambria Hotel & Suites Anaheim Resort Area
The Cambria is a GREAT option if your family doesn’t mind staying slightly further out from the Disneyland Resort (but still technically walking distance). Of all the hotels I’m sharing today, they are the only one that offers an included breakfast buffet. They also have the option of suites with fridges and large wet bar areas making food prep and in-room dining a breeze. The pool area is phenomenal and they even have poolside movies. They also have a large, underground parking area so you never have to worry about the lot filling up! Read our full review in this blog post.
Mostly Ds: The Viv Hotel Anaheim
The Viv is the furthest of these four hotels from the Disneyland Resort so driving or taking the ART shuttle is your best bet. However, the rooms are large and many have park views that you can watch fireworks from. The pool is fairly basic, although there are nice cabanas for rent, and an adult only pool on the roof that has a pretty incredible view! Read our full review in this blog post.
Our reviews of other hotels near Disneyland you may enjoy:
Courtyard Anaheim Theme Park Entrance Review
