As an Orlando local who lives near Disney World, I’m very familiar with the variety of hotel offerings outside of Disney World. There are so many inexpensive hotels near Disney World that it can easily become overwhelming when searching for a place to stay. When I was planning to move to the Orlando area, I often stayed at some of these less-expensive properties to get a feel for the area and do some necessary errands, so I have a lot of experience with them firsthand.
First, I have to let you know the reality with the cheap hotel landscape in Kissimmee. If you’ve ever seen The Florida Project (and you should), you might already know what I’m getting at. Franky, there are a lot of inexpensive hotels near Disney World that are full of crime, drugs, and most likely bedbugs. I don’t mean this to be offensive, I just want to send a word of warning about doing your research before opting for the cheapest hotel you find on Expedia.
There’s a common scam, especially with tourists from abroad, where you’ll think you’re staying at a nice, off-property resort only to end up at a sketchy motel. Nobody wants that, no matter your budget.
The good news is you can find plenty of fabulous resorts and hotels off-property that don’t come with the Disney price tag. If you get the chance and can afford it, I highly recommend staying at a Disney resort for at least one of your trips. Yet, I know how busy and expensive these can get, especially during the peak travel season.
In this guide, I’ll share my top picks for inexpensive hotels near Disney World that suit all budgets and price ranges! Some of these come with perks like resort amenities while others might just have the basics. It’s all about the parks, right? Sometimes all you need is a place to spend the night!
Why Stay Off-Property
First, let’s talk about why you might choose to stay off-property in the first place. Disney World has a variety of hotels at different price ranges going from deluxe to value. Still, even the value resorts can be pricey sometimes. You might get a better deal off-property, and you might get better perks off-property.
Why you might consider staying near Disney World:
- It’s peak season and Disney prices are too high
- You need more space, multiple rooms, or the Disney value resorts are too limiting
- You don’t want to pay Disney’s resort fees and parking fees (between $10 – $25 a day)
- You’re planning to visit other theme parks outside of Disney or explore Florida outside the parks
- You’re a rewards member for a travel brand and want to pay with points
Finally, I have to recommend you to AirBnb if you think you might prefer a vacation rental or home rather than a traditional resort. I’ve personally stayed at several amazing AirBnbs around Orlando and near Disney World, and they can be a great option, especially for larger groups.
Disney Springs Hotels
My first recommendation for inexpensive hotels near Disney World is the Disney Springs resort area. There are a lot of great perks to choosing this location like:
- Transportation to and from Disney Parks and Disney Springs
- Walking access to Disney Springs
- Extra magic hours
- Disney concierge and tickets on-site
I’ve stayed at a few of the Disney Springs hotels myself, and they’re usually a lot more affordable than the Disney-owed properties yet they come with many of the same perks. Most of them have amazing pools, on-site bars and restaurants, and you can’t beat the walk to Disney Springs.
Note, however, that these do all come with resort fees and parking fees which are around $20+ a day. It helps if you don’t have to bring a car, but you will need to find your own transportation to the resorts since there’s no Magical Express.
Here are my favorite Disney Springs resorts:
Holiday Inn Disney Springs
This Holiday Inn is a recently renovated property and probably my biggest recommendation for Disney Springs hotels. It’s one of the most inexpensive options, even with the resort fees, the rooms are huge, and you can even see the park fireworks if you get the right view.
- Amenities: Pool, convention center, on-site resort and bar, Disney store, and car rental
- Starting price: $89
- Website Link
Hilton Orlando Buena Vista Palace Disney Springs
I’ve stayed at this hotel not once, but twice in a single year! It feels like I’m staying at a Disney resort, but it’s way less expensive. It’s a high-rise resort with amazing views of Disney and the surrounding area, it’s the closest resort to Disney Springs, and there’s even a spa. The pool is where this place really impresses, however. It’s even got a lazy river! It’s perfect for couples, families, or whatever else you need.
- Amenities: Several heated pools, lazy river, adult pool, convention center, several on-site bars and restaurants, movie rentals, and close to Disney Springs
- Starting price: $113
- Website Link
Inexpensive Off-Site Disney World Hotels
Now that we’ve covered some of my favorite Disney Springs resorts, it’s time to talk about the best ones located off-site. While the price might fluctuate depending on the time of year, these are great values for staying off-property. However, these are hotels I’ve either seen myself, stayed at myself, or have done a lot of research on so you know exactly what you’re getting!
$100+/Night Hotels
First, let’s look at the hotels are that are just over $100 a night. At this price, you might think it’s best to just go with a Disney value resort, however, sometimes these are way over this price tag or booked solid. Check these out instead!
SpringHill Suites Orlando at Flamingo Crossing
This hotel is a bit further from the parks, but if you don’t mind the drive, you’ll get quite the deal. It’s about a 10 minute drive to Disney World property, and it’s located in a safe area. With SpringHill Suites, you can book a room or a suite depending on just how much space you need. There’s a kitchenette in each room, and there’s even a full breakfast offered each morning which is even more savings.
- Amenities: Bar and restaurant, on-site laundry, suite options, free parking, and pool
- Price: $103+
- Website Link
Sheraton Orlando Lake Buena Vista
Located just outside of Disney World, this Sheraton has a lot of resort amenities you won’t want to miss. Not only are you a 4 minute drive from Disney Springs, but you’re also within 10 minutes of the Vineland Outlets. The rooms themselves might not be anything spectacular, but the price is right and the amenities are perfect for a day of fun. There are several pools, a full-service spa, and so much more.
- Amenities: 2 pools, 2 restaurants, full-service spa, bars/lounges, fitness center, poolside bar, and close location
- Price: $109+ (excludes $31 daily resort fee)
- Website Link
The Grove Resort Orlando
This property has it’s own mini water park on-site if you can believe it. The rooms themselves are modern, stylish, and perfect for any sized family. With 3 restaurants, 4 pools, and even free shuttles to the theme parks, this might be the best-value property on this list.
- Amenities: Pools, restaurants, full-service spa, free theme park shuttle, water park access, poolside bars, suite rooms, deep soaking tubs, full-kitchens, breakfast options, and fitness center
- Price: $140+ (excludes $35 daily resort fee)
- Website Link
Under $100/Night Hotels
Sometimes you really want a bargain and you need a place to stay that’s in the $50 – $100 range. If you’re not planning to spend a lot of time in the room, one of these might be a great fit for your needs.
Orange County National Lodge
Just 10 minutes from Magic Kingdom, this hotel really might be what you’re looking for. While it might be a bit more bare-bones than other hotels, it has all you could possibly need as well as some surprising extras like a golf course nearby.
- Amenities: golf course, on-site bar and coffee shop, free parking, laundry facilities, and barbecue grills
- Price: $70+
- Website Link
Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham Lake Buena Vista
With this hotel, you’re only 5 minutes from Disney Springs and you’re even closer to local restaurants and shops. You can also enjoy the free breakfast buffet, and lots of nice amenities. The only thing that will surprise you is the price.
- Amenities: Pool, free breakfast, free parking, gym, on-site laundry, and close to the parks
- Price: $87+
- Website Link
Extended Stay America Lake Buena Vista
Another option is this nearby Extended Stay America. It’s a bit closer to SeaWorld and Discovery Cove than Disney World, but you’re still a short i4 drive away from Disney World. Extended Stay America is perfect for larger families who need more room options and kitchen facilities.
- Amenities: In-room kitchen, barbecue grills, laundry facilities, pool, and near SeaWorld
- Price: $90+
- Website Link
Quality Inn & Suites Kissimmee
This is one of the hotels where I like to say don’t judge a book by the cover. It might not look like much, but this is a top-rated property for a reason. Located just 10 minutes from Disney and within walking distance of local restaurants, there’s not much more you could need at this hotel. Sure, it’s not flashy, and there aren’t many extras, but it’s still a great value.
- Amenities: Free breakfast, pool, free parking, business center, and laundry.
- Price: $70+
- Website Link
Affordable Hotels Near Disney World
There you have it. These are the best inexpensive hotels near Disney World as recommended by a Disney World local! Finding great value in the Disney area isn’t impossible. If this guide proves anything, it’s that you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy Disney World.
If you’re considering staying on-property, be sure to check out my guide to saving money on Disney World resorts. Otherwise, I hope you find what you’re looking for off-property!