Hotels Near Walt Disney World: Benefits to Staying Off Disney Property
July 6, 2009 by Nancy Bobby
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Announcing an upcoming vacation to Disney World is likely to be greeted with squeals of excitement from the youngest members and perhaps some of the adults as well. But that excitement is usually quickly tempered by the realization that this could be a very expensive vacation. Fortunately, there are many ways to save money on a vacation to Walt Disney World. And one of the best ways is not to stay in one of Disney’s many resort properties, but rather in one of the hundreds of hotels near Walt Disney World.
The benefits to staying off-property are many. To start, expect to get larger and/or better accommodations for the same or less money than you would have spent at a Disney property. If you have a large family, this is especially important, as a typical hotel room is not usually large enough. Plus, if you are traveling during the busy holiday seasons, or peak summer/school vacations, you will find it to be much easier to find rooms in a lower price range.
Many folks would like to visit non-Disney attractions while in the Orlando area. Staying off-site makes this a bit easier and less expensive as well, since a number of hotels provide discounts and coupons to other area theme parks and restaurants. And you will find more options for less expensive meals and shopping.
Other benefits may include shuttle transportation to the theme parks, and the ever-popular free breakfast. Many hotels also have lavishly-designed pool areas, spa and workout rooms, as well as children’s activities. And a number of properties have options for suite accommodations with mini-kitchens as well.
There is no doubt that you will not have a 24/7 Disney experience if you stay off-site…but you may be one who finds that to be advantageous. There are many who find they just need a break from all that pixie dust…and staying off Disney property can provide that much needed dose of reality every day.
Many folks do not realize that there are several “non-Disney” hotels that are actually on Disney property. You will find a few in Downtown Disney, and then there are the lovely Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin resorts, located within easy distance of both Epcot and Hollywood Studios. In any of these hotels, you will get many of the Disney resort guest benefits, but without the cost that goes along with those benefits. It’s a great compromise for those who want a more Disney experience but with a lower price tag.
Are there any disadvantages to staying off Disney property? The greatest potential problem could be transportation, and this is one are that you should investigate carefully if you are planning on using your hotel’s available shuttle service. For example, some hotels share shuttles, or charge for their use. This can become challenging if you want to take afternoon breaks from the parks. You can rent a car, but you should know that there will be a parking fee, and if visiting on peak holidays, the parking lots may be closed to non-Disney guests. Nevertheless, if you do your research, you will find a number of excellent options where transportation will not be an issue.
If you are looking to save money on your upcoming Disney vacation, you will find that there are many hotels near Walt Disney World that offer lots of great advantages, and few real disadvantages. Going to Disney World and saving money: it’s a winning combination!
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