A whopping 17 million visitors graced Disneyland in 2023.
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Located in Anaheim, California, Disneyland is one of the US’s most frequently visited amusement parks. While it doesn’t hold a candle to Disney World’s attendance numbers (58 million in 2023), it’s the West Coast’s most popular choice for parents and kids.
With plenty of Disneyland adventures baked into the vacation, the big question for many families is where to stay and what to pack. (Looking for suggestions on where to stay in Orlando while visiting Disney World? Start here.)
Is it best to stay in Anaheim and pay for a cheaper hotel with a longer commute to the park?
Is it worth it to shell out for an official Disney hotel?
And what about alternative hotels for families that want more than a shared room?
Let’s explore what you need to know about Disneyland hotels, along with the top picks from parents and kids.
Should you stay at an official Disney hotel?
The big question for families heading to Disneyland is whether or not they should pay for a branded Disney hotel.
The answer comes down to two factors: your family’s love of Disney and your trip budget.
If you’re part of a hardcore, Disney-loving family, it’s probably worth it to pay more for an on-site hotel. It puts you right in the center of a highly curated Disney experience—from Mickey Mouse pools to Buzz Lightyear sitting areas.
That being said, staying at an official Disney hotel requires a liberal budget, as these hotels are some of the priciest of the bunch.
And while Disney hotels are themed and exciting, they don’t offer too many perks in terms of features and amenities. That means regular Disney fans might prefer to spend their hard-earned money elsewhere.
Best Disneyland hotels
Best Disneyland budget pick: Residence Inn by Marriott at Anaheim Resort
This newly opened Residence Inn gives you all the necessary amenities for a great Disneyland experience.
It’s located within walking distance of the park entrance, includes free breakfast, and offers a larger room size than its competitor budget options.
Those three features should grab your attention. While many hotels are within walking distance of Disneyland, the Residence Inn offers a top-tier breakfast buffet and ample space for families to unwind after a long day.
You won’t find either feature for a cheaper price around Disneyland.
Best luxury Disneyland hotel: Westin Anaheim Resort
If you’re not concerned with savings, then book a room at the Westin.
Not only is this establishment a AAA Four-Diamond hotel but it’s also got plenty of on-site amenities that parents appreciate after long and exhausting days. I’m talking about high-class on-site restaurants and a full-service spa.
But the real magic here seems to be the hotel’s clean and tidy atmosphere, along with its quiet hush. I imagine the quiet hush is an unspeakably wonderful thing after a big day at Disneyland.
Best kid-friendly amenities: Courtyard by Marriott Theme Park Entrance
Want to keep the Disney fun going even after you leave the park?
This Courtyard by Marriott project offers tons of thematic zones for kids to enjoy… and then some other added bonuses. Its outdoor pool, for example, includes a full-scale water park that lets you get in plenty of playtime without leaving the grounds.
Best of all, the park is also located at the gates of Disneyland. That lets families get up early and take advantage of the park before it fills up each morning.
For hardcore Disneyland fans who don’t want to shell out for a Disney hotel, this should be your top pick.
Best Disney option: Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
Are you interested in staying inside the Disney bubble while you’re exploring the park? If so, I suggest you book a stay at the Grand Californian.
The hotel has a long list of live events and themed public spaces that you and your kids won’t forget anytime soon. Despite the focus on fun, the Grand Californian is also designed to feel a bit more upscale, giving both parents and kids the chance for meaningful downtime.
Most importantly, it offers unbeatable proximity to the park.
Best apartment-style hotel: Hyatt House at Anaheim Resort
It’s close to the park but otherwise distinct. The Hyatt House offers apartment-style rentals that let families more comfortably enjoy their alone time.
That makes this a solid selection for families exploring Anaheim and Los Angeles—not just Disneyland.
If you want a spacious and clean escape from the wild world of Disneyland, you’ll find plenty of room to relax at Hyatt House. Plus, it’s got tons of family-friendly amenities, from free breakfast to surprise gifts for kids at check-in.