Disneyland, the original of the Disney theme parks, is truly an original. Built in the center of Anaheim, Disneyland doesn’t have the same amount of space around the parks as Walt Disney World enjoys. As a result, however, there are many different hotels within walking distance of Disneyland, including chain hotels and Disney-owned and operated hotels. Here are our favorites (note: we received a complimentary stay at the Howard Johnson but all opinions are my own).
The Disneyland Hotel
Arguably the most nostalgic hotel on this list is the Disneyland Hotel, which is one of the three Disney-owned and operated hotels at Disneyland. The Disneyland Hotel offers Disney Vacation Club villas and studios and traditional hotel rooms. It’s close to Disneyland, near Downtown Disney, and is a very convenient place to stay.
Disney’s Pixar Place Hotel
If you are looking for Disney-theming on your Disneyland vacation, this is an excellent option. Like the other Disney-owned and operated hotels, it offers early park entry and is located close to the parks. There’s even a private entrance to Disney’s California Adventure. It was recently renovated with the change over to this theme. Read our full review of the Pixar Place Hotel here.
Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel and Spa
The grandest of the Disneyland hotels is the Grand Californian Hotel, located very close to Disneyland (and closest of the three Disney-owned hotels). This is the most luxurious of the Disneyland hotels and is priced accordingly.While you’ll be right in the heart of Disneyland, this resort will make you feel completely separated and remote. It’s California-themed, with natural elements incorporated. Read our full review here.
Howard Johnson by Wyndham Anaheim Hotel and Water Playground
Guests looking for convenient access to the Disneyland Parks with a touch of mid-century nostalgia should check out the Howard Johnson Anaheim Hotel and Water Playground. This hotel is located on South Harbor Drive in Anaheim and is within quick walking distance of the front entrance of the Disneyland parks.
Courtyard Anaheim Theme Park Entrance & Waterpark Resort
This hotel, located on South Harbor Blvd, is one of the best options for larger families because all rooms accommodate six guests. The standard rooms at the Courtyard are fantastic for families. They include a mini fridge, microwave, small dinette area, two showers (one stall, one combo shower/tub), and a set of bunk beds. Some of the rooms have water park and theme park views. The waterpark is a big draw here. It’s currently available exclusively to resort guests but does require a reservation. It offers a dunk bucket, spray area, pool, waterslides, and more. Read our full review here.
Westin Anaheim Resort
My son and I stayed at the Westin Anaheim Resort last July and loved our stay. It opened recently, and is now one of the best hotels within walking distance of Disneyland. It’s one of my favorite hotels I’ve stayed in recently. The Westin Anaheim Resort is located behind Pixar Pier in Disney’s California Adventure Park. However, to access the parks, you’ll need to walk down through Disney Springs. It is a bit of a longer walk than the Harbor Blvd hotels but still very doable.
Additional Options
Additional hotels: Element by Westin Anaheim Resort Convention Center, Cambria Hotel & Suites Anaheim Resort, Tropicana Inn & Suites, and Clementine Hotel & Suites Anaheim. We haven’t visited these specifically, but they are near the parks and have good reviews.