A trip to Disneyland is on many travelers’ bucket lists, especially theme-park fans and families who want to soak up the original magic. The best hotels around Anaheim combine comfortable, family-friendly rooms, easy access to the parks and Downtown Disney, and a little extra pixie dust. I’ve stayed at nearly all of these properties and had exceptional experiences at each.
Before choosing where to stay, know that the best Disneyland hotels fall into two camps: on-site resorts and nearby hotels. Whether you want to be inside Disney property or within a short walk of the gates is a matter of preference. One important change beginning January 5, 2026: instead of 30 minutes of early park entry, guests at Disney-owned hotels will receive one Lightning Lane skip-the-line pass for any Lightning Lane Multi-Pass eligible attraction during their visit.
Most of the hotels below are about a 10– to 15–minute walk from the parks, so no matter where you stay, you’ll be close to your favorite rides. For me, that often means waking up early for Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride at Disneyland Park or Guardians of the Galaxy — Mission: Breakout! at Disney California Adventure.
Disneyland Hotel
The Disneyland Hotel is the classic on-site option. It’s pricier than many off-property hotels but offers proximity to both parks and Downtown Disney, Disney-level service, and lively dining spots such as Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar. Standard rooms sleep up to five people, and larger suites and villas can accommodate very large groups. It’s a great pick for families who want to stay immersed in Disney theming and convenience.
Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
Renowned for its service and Craftsman-style design, the Grand Californian is steps from the parks and offers direct access to Disney California Adventure. It features multiple dining options, a full-service spa, and exclusive viewing for nightly shows from a sixth-floor deck accessible to guests. The attention to detail and atmosphere make it ideal for special occasions or a splurge getaway.
The Villas at the Disneyland Hotel
The Villas at the Disneyland Hotel are Disney Vacation Club–branded accommodations that are bookable without owning DVC points. Studio rooms and villas range from intimate two-person studios themed to Jungle Book up to three-bedroom grand villas that sleep up to 12 and draw inspiration from Disney films. New pool and splash-pad areas, including a Steamboat Willie–themed water-play space, add family-friendly downtime away from the parks.
The Villas at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
These villas suit larger groups or families who want kitchen facilities and more space. Accommodations fit roughly five to 12 people, letting you cook some meals or enjoy resort dining like GCH Craftsman Bar or Napa Rose. The property’s Craftsman aesthetic and easy access to Disney California Adventure are major perks.
Disney’s Pixar Place Hotel
The third on-site hotel embraces Pixar theming, with guest rooms paying homage to characters from films such as The Incredibles and Toy Story. It features a rooftop pool area inspired by Finding Nemo, with a splash pad and a Crush-like water slide, and offers occasional character appearances in the lobby—delightful surprises for children.
The Westin Anaheim Resort
About a 15–20–minute walk from Disneyland, the Westin Anaheim Resort is a luxury pick for families and convention-goers alike. It offers comfortable rooms, plentiful dining, firework views, and a layout that works for mixing park days with pool time. Its on-site amenities and proximity to the convention center make it versatile for different types of travelers.
JW Marriott, Anaheim Resort
The JW Marriott is a luxury property that appeals to families and business travelers. Spacious rooms, strong service, and several dining options (including an Italian chophouse and a rooftop bar) make it a solid choice. It’s within walking distance of Disneyland and Downtown Disney, and close to the Anaheim Convention Center.
Hilton Anaheim
About a mile from the parks and adjacent to the Anaheim Convention Center, the Hilton Anaheim offers a range of rooms from standard queens to suites that sleep large groups. Some rooms advertise “Disney View” options that provide glimpses of the parks and weekend fireworks. As a Good Neighbor hotel, it’s a reliable off-site alternative for families.
Anaheim Marriott
Also about a mile from Disneyland, the Anaheim Marriott is worth the short ride or walk. Rooms offer expansive views of the surrounding area and mountains, and on-site dining includes fun options like churro waffles for fueling up before a park day. It’s a comfortable, dependable choice for families who don’t mind a slightly longer trip to the gates.
Choosing where to stay comes down to priorities: immersive Disney service and immediate access at on-site resorts, or potentially more room and value at nearby hotels with a short walk or ride to the parks. No matter which you pick, you’ll be minutes away from the rides, parades, and characters that make Disneyland a magical family destination.
This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.


