Disney owns a range of stunning, beautifully-themed hotels at its resorts all over the world. Service, atmosphere, décor and the setting all play a role in deciding which of the company’s many hotels are the “best”. When you stay at a Disney property, you can expect great theming, from the decorations and look of the building to the attire worn by the “Cast Members” working there. The best hotels are not necessarily the most expensive, and not all of the resorts on this list are in the deluxe category.
5. Disney’s Grand Californian (Disney California Adventure)
Sprawling not just near, but actually into Disney’s California Adventure, the Grand Californian Resort and Spa is the most luxurious spot to stay if you are heading to Disneyland. With an elegant Victorian atmosphere (similar to that of Walt Disney Worl’s Grand Floridian), an array of fine dining options, and an on-site spa, the Grand Californian is perfect for couples, honeymooners or families who enjoy upscale destinations. Guests staying at the Grand Californian get an extra perk – a private entrance directly into the theme park, along with extra time to stay and play in the park each day.
4. Disneyland Hotel (Disneyland Paris)
What’s the only way to improve on the design and guest experience offered by the Grand Californian and Grand Floridian resorts? Pick them up and drop them into a more exotic locale…say 40 miles outside of Paris, perhaps? The Disneyland Hotel in Paris offers all of the luxury of the flagship California and Florida properties, and takes the dining and service to a new level. Don’t miss the on-site Celestia Spa for the ultimate in relaxation. Ready to play in the park? You’ll be right at the gates of Disneyland Paris, and you won’t need to worry about getting around – the resort has everything you need for an outstanding vacation.
3. Disneyland Hotel (Disneyland Resort)
This totally renovated resort burst back into the competition for the “best” resort in California late last year. With fully renovated rooms, amazing pools and tons of kitschy, retro appeal, the Disneyland Resort is ready to offer you nostalgia-inducing accommodation with thoroughly modern services and amenities. From the Mickey-shaped jacuzzis to the stunning new pool area, this revamped resort is back at a whole new level. Designed to appeal to family travelers, the renovated Disneyland Hotel showcases Disney hospitality at its finest, and is not-to-be-missed for the serious Disney traveler.
2. Disney’s Contemporary Resort (Walt Disney World)
One of Walt Disney World’s original resorts is still one of its best. With convenient monorail access (the monorail goes right through the building), amazing views and some of the best restaurants on Disney World property, the Contemporary Resort is a veritable showcase of what Disney does best. Want to have one of the best meals you’ll find anywhere? Make a reservation for the top floor’s California Grill. Prefer to dine with Mickey and Pals? Then head to Chef Mickey’s, one of the most popular character dining experiences in Walt Disney World. The nearby Grand Floridian may be more fancy, and the Polynesian a bit more romantic, but no hotel offers more classic Disney magic than the Contemporary Resort.
1. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge (Walt Disney World)
Adjacent to Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park in Orlando, Florida, the Animal Kingdom Lodge has plenty to offer guests. It is one of the newer resorts in Walt Disney World, and offers consistently good service and unparalleled kid’s activities and recreation. From the moment you arrive, you are immersed in Africa’s culture, from the animal textiles behind the front desk to the tribal art pieces and fire pits scattered through the lobby and grounds. The best part of staying at the Animal Kingdom Lodge? The on-site savannah, which features a variety of animals. Some rooms have a savannah view, and there are animal education and viewing areas scattered around the resort. This resort is one of the best places to stay with kids – from Simba’s clubhouse (childcare) to daily animal activities, storytelling and crafts, the Lodge is a huge hit with younger guests.
Photo credits: All images © Disney (Source: Walt Disney World and Disneyland press offices), except Disneyland Hotel, Paris (© Natalie Sim)
