Guide to Disney World Good Neighbor Hotels & Off-Site Stays

You don’t have to stay on Disney property to have an amazing Disney vacation. Off-site hotels offer larger rooms, lower prices, extra amenities, and more flexibility which makes them a fantastic choice for families on a budget.

Affordable options, extra space, and plenty of Disney magic

 

My Best Tips for Off-Site Disney Stays
  • Plan transportation ahead of time: Shuttles may run less frequently than Disney buses.

  • Magic Kingdom note: Off-site buses drop off at the Transportation & Ticket Center, not at the gate.

  • Link everything early: Park tickets, dining, and Lightning Lanes can still be managed in the My Disney Experience app.

  • Choose hotels with kid-friendly amenities: Kitchens, laundry, game rooms, and pools make a huge difference.

  • Check room layouts: Off-site hotels often offer more space for less money.

  • Look for free meals: Some hotels include breakfast or evening snacks (Drury’s Kickback is a favorite!).

  • Plan for parking costs: Check fees at both the hotel and Disney.

  • Understand perk differences: Off-site usually means no Early Theme Park Entry or Disney transportation.
Swan, Dolphin & Swan Reserve — Quick Highlights
  • Deluxe feel without Disney Deluxe prices

  • Amazing location between EPCOT and Hollywood Studios

  • Walk or boat to both parks

  • Bookable with Marriott Bonvoy points

  • Large, comfortable rooms with Heavenly Beds

  • Lots of dining options and lounges

  • Beautiful pools, spa, fitness center, and beach areas

  • Great for families, couples, and conference guests

Transportation Perks

  • Walk to EPCOT & Hollywood Studios

  • Friendship Boats to both parks

  • Disney buses to Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, water parks & Disney Springs

  • Skyliner access via EPCOT’s International Gateway

Pricing & Perks

  • Typically $250–$500 per night depending on season

  • Early Theme Park Entry included

  • No Extended Evening Hours

  • Excellent value when using Marriott points

Mom Tips

  • Perfect during EPCOT festivals because everything is walkable

  • Ask for a higher floor for possible fireworks views

  • Swan Reserve is quieter; Dolphin has more dining

  • Great for teens who want easy park access

Marriott Village

Comfort & Convenience Near Disney

What You’ll Find Here

  • SpringHill Suites

  • Fairfield Inn & Suites

  • TownePlace Suites

  • Spacious family rooms and suites

  • Rates usually $100–$200 per night

  • Free breakfast options

Mom Tips

  • Shuttle service available to Disney parks

  • Free breakfast saves money every day

  • Note: No Early Theme Park Entry, so plan mornings accordingly

Disney Springs Area Hotels

Magic Without the Resort Price

Where You Can Stay

  • Holiday Inn

  • Drury Plaza Hotel Orlando

  • Hilton Orlando Buena Vista Palace

  • Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista

  • DoubleTree Suites by Hilton

  • Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista

  • Renaissance Orlando Resort & Spa

Why Families Love This Area

  • Bigger rooms and suites

  • Often cheaper than Disney resorts

  • Walking access to Disney Springs

  • Some hotels offer fireworks views

  • Great for families who want fun nights without the park crowds

Transportation Perks

  • Free buses to all parks & Disney Springs

  • Water taxis from select hotels

  • Walking access to Disney Springs dining and shopping

MomTip:
We love staying here for the space, savings, and the ability to walk to Disney Springs for dinner or treats.

Bonnet Creek

Peaceful Stays Close to the Parks

Why It’s a Hidden Gem

  • Near Caribbean Beach & Riviera Resort

  • Timeshare-style condos and villas

  • Kitchens, living rooms & multiple bedrooms

  • Rates $250–$400 per night

  • Lazy rivers, cabanas, and beautiful pools

Mom Tips

  • Some packages include Early Theme Park Entry

  • Free shuttles to all four parks

  • A perfect balance of privacy and convenience

  • Great for families who want space and resort-style amenities

FAQ: Off-Site & Good Neighbor Disney Hotels

Are off-site hotels cheaper than Disney resorts?

Yes! Many off-site hotels offer large rooms and great amenities for half the price of Disney Value or Moderate resorts.

A few partner hotels do, but most do not. Always check your hotel’s benefits before booking.

Most offer shuttles, but schedules vary. If timing matters, review shuttle times before booking.

Yes! As long as your tickets are linked in the My Disney Experience app, you can book both normally.

Absolutely. Many offer suites, villas, and multi-room layouts at fantastic prices.

  • Disney Springs Hotels: Best dining & entertainment access

  • Marriott Village: Best value & simple family suites

  • Bonnet Creek: Best for large villas and resort amenities

  • Swan & Dolphin: Best for conveinence to the Disney Boardwalk and Hollywood Studios & EPCOT

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