For most visitors to Disney World, Orlando, staying somewhere close to the famous theme park is the most convenient option – and it’s not always one that will cost a fortune.
For the full Magic Kingdom experience, there’s no denying that staying in one of the park’s Disney-themed on-site hotels is the best way to dial up the excitement levels – particularly among kids. But for maximum value for money, there are also a large number of hotels that are off-site but still within a short walk or shuttle ride away. The two below are different in style, but both meet that key criteria of affordability and proximity.
Rosen Inn Lake Buena Vista
(Photo: Rosen Inn Lake Buena Vista / Courtesy Booking.com)
Spread across some 23 acres of pristinely landscape grounds, this hotel combines some great amenities with a plum setting. Among the former are a buffet restaurant, a choice of two outdoor swimming pools, a 24-hour games room, a playground, a convenience store and a business centre. Guest rooms are equipped with all you need for a comfortable stay, including microwaves and minifridges. There’s also a free shuttle service taking guests to and from Disney World throughout the day.
Set along a busy tourist corridor, just under 2 miles from the Disney World, this hotel removes you from the hustle and bustle of the park but still close enough to reach it quickly by road – although it may be too far to walk with little ones. In the immediate surroundings of the hotel, you’ll find a mix of casual restaurants, fast-food spots, convenience stores and gift shops.
Reviews: Rosen Inn Lake Buena Vista
Guest feedback rates Rosen Inn Lake Buena Vista a very good 8.3 overall. The hotel’s biggest strength is its location, which earns an excellent 9.2, highlighting its convenience for nearby attractions. At the other end of the scale, free Wi-Fi records the lowest score at 8.0, suggesting connectivity is solid but not a standout. Overall, reviews show Rosen Inn Lake Buena Vista is valued most for where it’s situated rather than its in-room tech offerings. From $80 per night.
Galleria Palms
(Photo: Galleria Palms / Courtesy Booking.com)
Brightly decorated, this hotel features an outdoor pool and a well-equipped exercise room open all day every day. To set themselves up for a long day at Disney World, guests can sit down to hot breakfasts served each morning. Guest rooms are simple but comfortable, with all of the practical comforts you need, with some also including sitting areas for putting your feet up and unwinding. There’d free parking and a complimentary shuttle bus to and from Disney World is also available from directly outside the hotel..
Situated in Kissimmee West, along the US-192 corridor in the southeastern reaches of Orlando, the hotel is about a 8-minute drive from Disney World. On your doorstep are several amenities, including two grand souvenir shops, a pharmacy, and handful of serviceable restaurants, making it a convenient, car-friendly base rather than a walkable resort-style option.
Reviews: Galleria Palms Orlando
Guest reviews rate Galleria Palms a very good 8.4 overall. The strongest impressions come from staff service and location, both earning excellent 9.1 scores. The lowest rating is for facilities at 8.3, which, while still positive, trails the hotel’s other scores. Overall, feedback suggests Galleria Palms shines most for service and location rather than on-site amenities. From $93 per night.
By Paul Joseph