In addition to the Disney owned and operated resorts, there are several resorts on property available for booking which Disney doesn’t own. These hotels don’t share all the same benefits as a Disney owned and operated resort would (such as Disney’s Magical Express, Extra Magic Hours or the Disney Dining Plans). However, there’s still something to be said for location, location, location, and in most cases, your price point will be lower, perhaps much lower, and you may even be able to use your preferred loyalty program perks.
Let’s look at the best non-Disney hotels at Walt Disney World. We’d love for you to leave your own thoughts and reviews in the comments and poll below.
Downtown Disney Hotels
The Downtown Disney area is home to seven hotels from various hotel chains. While not able to take advantage of Disney’s Magical Express to and from Orlando International, complimentary shuttles to and from the parks are available about every half hour. Official Disney ticket windows, as well as Walt Disney World gift shops, are available at each hotel. Guests at the Downtown Disney area hotels can also book tee times and dining reservations in advance and will receive a deal booklet for use at Downtown Disney.
Downtown Disney’s seven hotels are:
- B Resort and Spa
- Best Western Lake Buena Vista Resort Hotel
- Buena Vista Palace Hotel and Spa
- Double Tree Suites by Hilton
- Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista
- Holiday Inn Orlando – Downtown Disney Area
- Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Resort
Get Park Wise: The Downtown Disney area hotels are currently offering discounts for teachers and support staff, as well as first responders. Keep an eye out for these types of promotions that are typically not offered at Disney owned and operated resorts.
Wyndham Bonnet Creek
An option for larger groups can be found at the Wyndham Bonnet Creek, which features condo-style accommodations in one-, two-, three- and even four-bedroom suites. Suites feature balconies, living areas, full kitchens, washer/dryers and plenty of space to spread out and relax. A shuttle is offered to and from the parks, but be aware of the schedule.
Hilton Bonnet Creek
Adjacent to Downtown Disney and Hollywood Studios, Hilton Bonnet Creek offers a full service resort and conference center on a 482-acre nature preserve. Featuring a 3-acre lazy river and pool, poolside cabanas, Rees Jones-designed championship golf course and almost a dozen dining options, you’ll enjoy a nice non-Disney-themed respite after a day in the parks. A seasonally scheduled shuttle is available to and from the parks, so be sure to check the schedule prior to check-in if this is a deal breaker. Hilton Bonnet Creek also offers promotions and is also currently offering discounts to educators.
Waldorf Astoria Orlando
Sharing many amenities with Hilton Bonnet Creek, the Waldorf Astoria offers guests a taste of luxury away from the hustle and bustle of Walt Disney World. Like the Downtown Disney area resorts, official ticket windows and merchandise is available, as well as the same seasonally scheduled shuttle found at Hilton Bonnet Creek (shared motor coach). Again, check for promotions, as they will be different than those offered at Disney owned and operated resorts.
Four Seasons Orlando
The newest resort to come to Walt Disney World property, the Four Seasons Orlando offers a bit more in terms of Disney magic than its non-Disney predecessors. Featuring a Disney planning center, as well as the ability to have Disney Floral deliver in-room gifts and theme park purchases delivered, the Four Seasons brings more Disney into its resort experience. In fact, Goofy and his friends even host a character breakfast on select days (currently Thursdays and Saturdays) at Ravello, the hotel’s Italian offering.
Get Park Wise: Parents need a little break? The Four Seasons offers a complimentary kids’ club in the form of Kids For All Seasons open from 10:00 A.M. To 6:00 P.M. daily.
Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin
If you know me, it’s no secret I think these two properties are an absolute eyesore on the skyline of the Epcot area. That said, these are a great option for guests wanting to stay in the middle of the magic with a much more magical price. The resorts do use official Disney transportation in the form of buses and Friendships (boats that run the Hollywood Studios to Epcot route), and they are often offered Extra Magic Hours. Be sure to check on this specific perk at check-in. Again, different promotions are offered here, so keep an eye on teacher, nurse and military discounts, as well as general offers. Starwood Preferred Guests can also use their perks here.
Get Park Wise: Garden Grove at the Swan offer character dinners, as well as character breakfasts on Saturdays and Sundays. Not widely known to the average vacationer, this is a fairly easy spot to snag a last minute character meal.
Shades of Green
Once the Golf Resort and Disney Inn, the now Armed Forces Recreation Center is a great option for military and DoD families vacationing at Walt Disney World. Located just across the street from Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, the location can’t be beat, especially for the rates! Active duty and retired military are eligible, as well as certain DoD civilians. Rates are based on rank and can come in at under $100 a night. A discounted (and tax-free) ticket outlet is located here, as well. Shades of Green provides its own transportation to and from the parks and runs about as often as official Disney transportation. The “Shady Shuttle” also offer golf cart transport to the end of Shades of Green property for guests wishing to utilize Disney transportation at the Polynesian Village.
Have you tried a non-Disney hotel? Which are your favorites? Take the poll below and leave a comment:
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