Disneyland Area Hotel Reviews & Rankings
Looking for a great hotel near Disneyland and California Adventure? This ranks & reviews 52 of the best and worst hotels in Anaheim, including pros & cons, room photos, and a numerical score based upon walking distance, prices, room quality & size, and amenities. (Updated November 8, 2021.)
Disneyland has seen a hotel explosion in the last few years, and several of the accommodations reviewed here are brand new! With over a dozen new properties and thousands of rooms added, you can often find some great deals, especially during California’s off-season or when events aren’t scheduled at the nearby Anaheim Convention Center.
We recommend booking a discounted hotel + ticket vacation package via Get Away Today to save money. In addition to the package discount, some hotels have ‘4th night free’ promos, and there’s currently a ‘5th day free’ promo on park tickets. Save an extra $10 by using code TOURIST at checkout (valid on 2-night and longer stays). Click here to check out the package discounts available. This is in addition to any package or bundle savings on tickets and hotels.
Our rankings are based upon firsthand experience through actual stays at all of the hotels–many multiple times. I have stayed at 60+ hotels near Disneyland and this is the only resource ranking so many Anaheim hotels from the perspective of one individual. Every other guide or list is inconsistent due to crowd-sourcing or cobbled together from indirect experience.
Scoring is based upon important objective details that will matter most if you’re planning a vacation to Disneyland Resort…plus some of my opinions. Think of this as the ultimate guide to determine which hotel you should pick once you’ve determined whether you want to stay on-site or off-site during your trip to Anaheim.
Rankings are determined by best total scores, which are out of a possible 30 points in 4 categories. There’s a maximum of 10 points for distance, 8 points for room quality & size, 7 points for cost, and 5 points for amenities. Those odd numbers might seem, well, odd, but they were chosen with careful consideration after a lot of reader feedback.
For most of you, location, room, and cost are the big factors, which is why they’re weighted. There’s a possibility what you prioritize in a hotel near Disneyland and Disney California Adventure will differ at least slightly from our scale. In that case, you can glean the selling points of each hotel from its summary, pros & cons, and the sub-divided numerical scores.
One thing to note before we get going is that Anaheim has a lot of sketchy hotels. We purposefully haven’t stayed in most of them and would likewise recommend you avoid them. If the price sounds too good to be true…it is! As for this list, we’d be comfortable staying at any Anaheim hotel in the top 45 here.
Now, on with the Anaheim/Disneyland-area hotel rankings! Clicking on any hotel name (that’s clickable) or links to the reviews will open the detailed review containing additional photos, info, and thoughts on that hotel in a new window. Let’s check out the rankings…
52. Alamo Inn & Suites
Alamo Inn & Suites should be the poster child for Hotel Hell. Except, in this case, Alamo Inn is simply a lost cause. This hell-hole should be stayed in by absolutely no one. Don’t risk it. Read and see more in our full Alamo Inn & Suites Review
Pros: Cheap
Cons: Everything else
Scoring
Distance: 4
Room Size & Quality: 1
Cost: 6
Amenities: 1
Total Score: 12
51. Anaheim Maingate Inn
I’m pretty excited that I did not catch any diseases from this hotel. It’s truly awful, and should be condemned by the city of Anaheim. Read and see more in our full Anaheim Maingate Inn Review
Pros: Cheap
Cons: Everything else
Scoring
Distance: 5
Room Size & Quality: 1
Cost: 6
Amenities: 1
Total Score: 13
50. Rodeway Inn & Suites Anaheim
Rodeway Inn is a bit on the scary side, but not quite as scary as Alamo Inn & Suites. Another downside is that it’s farther away. Not recommended.
Pros: Cheap; near Roscoe’s House of Chicken & Waffles
Cons: Everything else
Scoring
Distance: 4
Room Size & Quality: 2
Cost: 5
Amenities: 2
Total Score: 13
49. Americas Best Value Inn & Suites
How Americas Best Value Inn & Suites ranks so highly on TripAdvisor confounds me. This should be viewed for what it is: a budget ‘shower & sleep’ motel that is one of the cheapest hotels within walking distance of Disneyland. That alone is worth something points, but the motel itself is absolutely nothing special. Read and see more in our full Americas Best Value Inn & Suites Review
Pros: Cheap; close to parks
Cons: Smell; room quality; other guests; $3/night resort (lol) fee
Scoring
Distance: 7
Room Size & Quality: 2
Cost: 5
Amenities: 1
Total Score: 15
48. Delta Hotel by Marriott Anaheim Resort
A perfectly adequate hotel, but easily surpassed by the other chained-brand Anaheim Convention Center hotels. This makes me hesitant to recommend it. Read and see more in our full review
Pros: Major label amenity set; solid rooms
Cons: Location; not on par with nearby counterparts
Click here to book discounted rates at the Delta Hotel by Marriott Anaheim
Distance: 4
Room Size & Quality: 5
Cost: 3
Amenities: 4
Total Score: 16
47. Extended Stay America Anaheim Convention Center
Extended Stay America is often the cheapest 2-star hotel in the Disney South zone on Hotwire’s “Hot Rate” section (we’re talking ~$50/night or less). That makes it a solid hotel if you want to prepare you meals in a full kitchen, but otherwise are fine with a barebones place to stay.
Pros: Cheap; full kitchen
Cons: Very basic; lacking amenities
Scoring
Distance: 6
Room Size & Quality: 2
Cost: 7
Amenities: 2
Total Score: 17
46. Stanford Inn & Suites
Stanford Inn really over-delivers for a budget motel in an undesirable location. The rooms are nicer than they conceivably should be, and the rates cannot be beat. Read and see more in our full Stanford Inn & Suites Review
Pros: Great value; surprisingly good rooms
Cons: Location
Click here to book discounted rates at Stanford Inn & Suites
Scoring
Distance: 4
Room Size & Quality: 5
Cost: 5
Amenities: 3
Total Score: 17
45. Ayres Hotel Anaheim
This would rank highly due to its European boutique hotel style with the service of a family-owned mom & pop hotel. Distance from the parks knocks it down in our rankings, but if you’re driving that’s fine. Perfect for a Southern California with a visit to Disneyland being only one part of that trip, as opposed to a Disneyland vacation. Read and see more in our full Ayres Hotel Anaheim Review
Pros: Beautiful rooms; European flair; excellent upkeep.
Cons: Requires driving or Uber
Click here to book discounted rates at Ayres Hotel Anaheim
Scoring
Distance: 1
Room Size & Quality: 7
Cost: 4
Amenities: 5
Total Score: 17
44. Best Western Courtesy Inn
Best Western Courtesy Inn is a long walk (it’ll take ~25 minutes), but is still a solid option. As far as the rooms go, this hotel is basic, but offers very strong value for money thanks to nice and clean accommodations. Read and see more in our full Best Western Courtesy Inn Review
Pros: Great value; surprisingly good rooms
Cons: Location
Scoring
Distance: 4
Room Size & Quality: 5
Cost: 4
Amenities: 4
Total Score: 17
43. Sonesta Anaheim Resort Area
The rooms aren’t trendy, but they also aren’t dated, and the slate of amenities is really impressive. The biggest downside is proximity, as it’s about a 30 minute walk, which really pushes the limits of walking distance. Read and see more in our Sonesta Anaheim Resort Area Review
Pros: Solid amenities & rooms
Cons: Location
Click here to book discounted rates at Sonesta Anaheim Resort Area
Scoring
Distance: 4
Room Size & Quality: 5
Cost: 4
Amenities: 4
Total Score: 17
42. Anaheim Majestic Garden Hotel
Can you really go wrong staying in a castle? Anaheim Majestic Garden Hotel tactfully balances what could be a kitschy theme with high-end amenities and modern rooms. The biggest downside is location, back by Mickey & Friends parking structure, but there’s a shuttle. Read and see more in our full Anaheim Majestic Garden Hotel Review
Pros: Modern rooms; nice amenities; recently refurbished; shuttle
Cons: Long walk through Downtown Disney almost requires using the shuttle or taxi; fees.
Click here to book discounted rates at Anaheim Majestic Garden Hotel
Scoring
Distance: 5
Room Size & Quality: 5
Cost: 3
Amenities: 4
Total Score: 17
41. Cortona Inn & Suites
Cortona Inn & Suites is an “if the price is right” kind of hotels. There’s nothing exemplary about it in any way: the rooms are average, it’s an average walk, and amenities are average. Price is the wild-card; sometimes it can be under $100 per night. You won’t regret your stay here…you just won’t remember it, either. It’s a very forgettable hotel. Read and see more in our Cortona Inn & Suites full review.
Pros: Price; clean rooms; decent breakfast.
Cons: No frills
Click here to book discounted rates at Cortona Inn & Suites
Scoring
Distance: 5
Room Size & Quality: 4
Cost: 5.5
Amenities: 3
Total Score: 17.5
40. Courtyard by Marriott Anaheim Resort
Nestled between Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse and the Anaheim Convention Center, this Courtyard is pretty nondescript from the outside. Heck, the main entrance doesn’t even have a marquee. However, the rooms are fairly modern and nice (and not cookie-cutter), and it’s convenient for both the parks and the ACC.
Pros: Price; well-designed rooms; convenience to ACC & Disneyland
Cons: Modest amenities
Click here to book discounted rates at Courtyard by Marriott Anaheim
Scoring
Distance: 5
Room Size & Quality: 5
Cost: 5
Amenities: 3
Total Score: 18
39. Desert Palms Hotel & Suites
Desert Palms Hotel & Suites is a solid hotel, with some nice advantages like indoor hallways and an inviting lobby that make it seem superior to the hotels directly on Harbor Boulevard. The location is advantageous and the rooms are fairly nice, but it doesn’t do much to separate itself from the pack–and prices can be a bit high. Read and see more in our full Desert Palms Hotel & Suites Review
Pros: Location; nice ‘pluses’ over other hotels; breakfast
Cons: Price; somewhat dated rooms; resort fee
Click here to book discounted rates at Desert Palms Hotel
Scoring
Distance: 7
Room Size & Quality: 4
Cost: 4
Amenities: 3
Total Score: 18
38. Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel
Here you’re paying a significant premium for that Disney’s in the name. The reality is that this used to be an ordinary ‘ole off-site hotel that Disney purchased and lightly decorated with a beach theme. If money is an issue, stay at a comparable-quality-but-cheaper off-site hotel. If money is no issue, go for the vastly superior Disneyland Hotel or Grand Californian. Read and see more in our full Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel Review
Pros: Fun beach style; on-site Disneyland Resort perks
Cons: Overpriced and overrated
Click here to request a price quote on a Paradise Pier Hotel vacation package
Scoring
Distance: 7
Room Size & Quality: 5
Cost: 2
Amenities: 4
Total Score: 18
37. SpringHill Suites Anaheim Maingate
This is one of two very recently-built Springhill Suites near Disneyland. This one doesn’t score quite as well because it’s located behind the Mickey & Friends Parking Structure which makes for a longer walk. Otherwise, it’s every bit as nice. For our personal tastes, the room layout here is nicer, and having some extra space to spread out is always a good thing.
Pros: Clean, modern rooms with nice bedding and sectional couches; family accommodations; included breakfast
Cons: Longer walk from behind Mickey & Friends
Click here to book a discounted rate at Sheraton Anaheim Maingate
Scoring
Distance: 4
Room Size & Quality: 6
Cost: 4
Amenities: 5
Total Score: 19
36. Hampton Inn & Suites Anaheim
This Hampton Inn is brand new, and follows the formula of all recent ‘big box’ hotel chains in Anaheim. The rooms aren’t as interesting, but the biggest downside is proximity to Disneyland. You’re looking at about a 25 minute walk to the parks; if not for that, this would be much higher up the list.
Pros: Solid amenities & rooms
Cons: Location
Click here to book discounted rates at Hampton Inn Anaheim Resort
Scoring
Distance: 4
Room Size & Quality: 6
Cost: 5
Amenities: 4
Total Score: 19
35. The Anaheim Hotel
Very much a mixed bag. This is the oldest hotel in Anaheim…and it shows! While the lobby has been overhauled, amenities enhanced, and some rooms upgraded, it simply feels old and tired. Some rooms are dark and dingy, effectively in a “basement” of outer buildings. Read and see more in our full Anaheim Hotel Review
Pros: Enormous grounds; big pool; space for activities; short walk
Cons: Old, dingy and dated
Click here to book discounted rates at the Anaheim Hotel
Scoring
Distance: 8
Room Size & Quality: 4
Cost: 3
Amenities: 4
Total Score: 19
34. Anaheim Camelot Inn & Suites
Location is the main selling point here, as Anaheim Camelot Inn & Suites is directly across the street from Disneyland. Rooms are satisfactory and a good fit for those who will be in the parks all day and only need something for sleeping and showering. The downsides, and why it ranks poorly as compared to other across-the-street options is its price and lack of a free breakfast. If you can score a deal here, it’s a fine option. Read and see more in our full Anaheim Camelot Inn Review
Pros: Location
Cons: Lackluster amenities; “castle surcharge”
Click here to book discounted rates at Anaheim Camelot Inn
Scoring
Distance: 10
Room Size & Quality: 4
Cost: 3
Amenities: 2
Total Score: 19
33. Sheraton Park Hotel at the Anaheim Resort
A nice-enough hotel for SPG members looking to use or earn points. We found it to be a bit dated both inside and out, and the layout of the rooms leaves a ton to be desired with a ton of wasted space. The grounds are nice and it’s within walking distance of both the Anaheim Convention Center and Disneyland. Read and see more in our full Sheraton Park Hotel at the Anaheim Resort Review
Pros: Major label amenity set; large rooms with balconies; very good location.
Cons: Quality not on par with nearby Hyatt, Marriott, or Hilton chains; too many fees.
Click here to book discounted rates at Sheraton Park Hotel
Scoring
Distance: 6
Room Size & Quality: 5
Cost: 4
Amenities: 4
Total Score: 19
32. Alpine Inn
Alpine Inn reminds me a lot of the Desert Inn. The former has more curb appeal with the cute chalet style check-in building, but otherwise it’s a step down from Desert Inn in most regards. Farther from the parks, slightly worse rooms, and slightly more expensive. It’s still a budget hotel that I like, but you can generally get more bang for your buck. Read and see more in our full Alpine Inn Hotel Review
Pros: Quaint chalet style; generally cheap
Cons: Usually better bang-for-buck value accommodations available
Scoring
Distance: 7
Room Size & Quality: 4
Cost: 4
Amenities: 3
Total Score: 19
31. Anaheim Marriott
Anaheim Marriott’s nice rooms and impressive amenities (Starbucks, rental car, fitness center, pool, etc.) catapult it up the list. Unfortunately, the long walk from the hotel to Disneyland does damper our enthusiasm for it a bit, as do the rack rates and fees. If you’re loyal to Marriott or are visiting Anaheim for a convention, this is a good option. Otherwise, you’re almost certainly better off elsewhere. Read and see more in our full Anaheim Marriott Review
Pros: Very nice rooms; robust amenities; futuristic elevators; adult ambiance in common areas
Cons: Distance to parks; cost; fees
Click here to book discounted rates at Anaheim Marriott
Scoring
Distance: 5
Room Size & Quality: 6
Cost: 3
Amenities: 5
Total Score: 19
30. Hyatt Regency Orange County
This is really one of my favorite hotels near Disneyland, but it’s a solid 30 minute walk to the parks and isn’t in the best location. If you’re a conventioneer, business traveler, have loyalty to Hyatt, or are willing to take an Uber to/from Disneyland, this will be an ideal option for you. The rooms are nice, service is impeccable, and the amenities are solid. Read and see more in our full Hyatt Regency Orange County Review
Pros: Very nice rooms; robust amenities; adult ambiance in common areas
Cons: Distance to parks; cost; fees
Click here to book discounted rates at Hyatt Regency Orange County
Scoring
Distance: 4
Room Size & Quality: 7
Cost: 3
Amenities: 5
Total Score: 19
29. Castle Inn & Suites
Who among us doesn’t want to live in a castle?! Well…probably a lot of the adults out there. Castle Inn & Suites is basically “Medieval Times: The Motel,” and like that dinner show, this feels a lot like the early 90s. However, the rooms do have interesting character and the hotel isn’t altogether dated. Let’s be honest, though, the main reason to stay here is because it’ll make your kids happy. Read and see more in our full Castle Inn & Suites Review
Pros: Sleeping in a $#*% castle!!!; reasonable walk
Cons: Premium rates for sleeping in said castle; somewhat dated
Click here to book discounted rates at Castle Inn & Suites
Scoring
Distance: 8
Room Size & Quality: 4.5
Cost: 4
Amenities: 3
Total Score: 19.5
28. Candlewood Suites Anaheim Resort Area
Candlewood Suites is another newer, family suite-centric hotel in the Anaheim Resort area. Its rooms are nice, but more compact than other options. Its amenities are not as impressive, thanks to a smaller pool and lack of a free breakfast, but it’s still a solid option. Pricing is often more attractive than its family suite competitors, too.
Pros: Newness & room size
Cons: Lackluster amenities; location
Click here to book discounted rates at Candlewood Suites Anaheim Resort
Scoring
Distance: 6
Room Size & Quality: 6
Cost: 4
Amenities: 4
Total Score: 20
27. Clarion Hotel
Clarion Hotel’s dated interior feels like a time capsule, but at least it’s a well-maintained time capsule. Rooms are also surprisingly nice and spacious. Datedness is reflected in the prices, which are the lowest of any hotel this close to Disneyland.
Pros: Bargain pricing and business hotel caliber amenities (albeit dated ones)
Cons: About two decades overdue for a top-to-bottom overhaul
Click here to book discounted rates at Clarion Hotel
Scoring
Distance: 6
Room Size & Quality: 4.5
Cost: 6
Amenities: 3.5
Total Score: 20
26. Candy Cane Inn
Candy Cane Inn is about a decade overdue for a top to bottom refurbishment, and was long ago passed by other hotels in Anaheim. Nevertheless, it is beloved among longtime Disneyland fans for the friendly, family-run nature of the business and its plant-lined grounds. Read and see more in our full Candy Cane Inn Review
Pros: Friendly family-owned hotel; charming style; free shuttle
Cons: Slightly longer walk than across the street hotels; dated rooms
Click here to book Candy Cane Inn
Scoring
Distance: 8
Room Size & Quality: 4
Cost: 4
Amenities: 4
Total Score: 20
25. Anaheim del Sol Inn
A recent renovation really improved the rooms here, bumping this up considerably. Still, it’s a barebones hotel with a primary selling point being that it’s often the cheapest hotel directly across the street from Disneyland. Read and see more in our full Anaheim del Sol Inn Review
Pros: Location; price
Cons: Very basic rooms & amenities
Click here to book discounted rates at Anaheim del Sol Inn
Scoring
Distance: 10
Room Size & Quality: 4
Cost: 4
Amenities: 2.5
Total Score: 20.5
24. Grand Legacy at the Park
The standard guest rooms are still lacking here and parking is a mess. With that said, the Grand Legacy is still serviceable, and the guest rooms are sufficient. The reasons you’ll want to stay here are location, dining, pool, and (potentially) price. Read and see more in our full Grand Legacy at the Park Review
Pros: Good dining; directly across the street from Disneyland
Cons: Small & basic rooms; limited parking
Click here to book Grand Legacy at the Park
Scoring
Distance: 9
Room Size & Quality: 3.5
Cost: 4
Amenities: 4
Total Score: 20.5
23. Four Points by Sheraton Anaheim
Although it has garnered mixed reviews online, we are fans of Four Points by Sheraton Anaheim. The rooms leave something to be desired, but the amenities and common areas are great, making it an excellent place to unwind after (or pregame before?) a night in the parks. Honeymooners and other adults wanting a hotel within walking distance should love the Four Points. Read and see more in our full Four Points by Sheraton Anaheim Review
Pros: Excellent lounge and pool areas; nicely updated rooms
Cons: Location adjacent to I-5 interstate; walk crosses I-5 on-ramp
Click here to book discounted rates at Four Points Anaheim (4th Night Free!)
Scoring
Distance: 6.5
Room Size & Quality: 6
Cost: 4
Amenities: 4
Total Score: 20.5
22. Hyatt Place Anaheim
This one is very similar in quality to the higher-ranking Hyatt House, this scores lower for its less comfortable beds, farther distance to the parks, and a higher price point. On the other hand, decor and finishings are nicer here, breakfast is included (as with Hyatt House), and it’s an easy walk to the Toy Story lot where you can catch a free shuttle. Read and see more in our full Hyatt Place Anaheim Review
Pros: Clean, modern rooms with nice bedding and sectional couches; included breakfast
Cons: Cost; parking
Click here to book discounted rates at Hyatt Place Anaheim
Scoring
Distance: 5
Room Size & Quality: 7
Cost: 4
Amenities: 4.5
Total Score: 20.5
21. SunCoast Park Hotel Anaheim
SunCoast Park Hotel Anaheim is one of the newer hotels in Anaheim, and follows the recent formula of other popular family suite-centric hotels. SunCoast offers spacious rooms and solid, modern amenities being its selling points. Read and see more in our full SunCoast Park Hotel Anaheim Review
Pros: Location; newness; room size; pool
Cons: Space utilization; cheap finishings
Click here to book discounted rates at SunCoast Park Hotel Anaheim
Scoring
Distance: 7
Room Size & Quality: 6
Cost: 4
Amenities: 4
Total Score: 21
20. Homewood Suites by Hilton Anaheim Convention Center
The Homewood Suites is another new family suite/extended stay style hotel. It follows the same formula as the others mentioned on this list, and offers amenities every bit as nice. It’s a bit of a walk, however it is immediately adjacent to the Toy Story lot, where there’s a free shuttle to the park. A social hour with complimentary beer and wine plus a great free breakfast round out the list of selling points. Read and see more in our full Homewood Suites Review.
Pros: Clean, modern rooms; family accommodations; included breakfast & social hour
Cons: Long walk; bland style
Click here to book a discounted rate at Homewood Suites
Scoring
Distance: 6.5
Room Size & Quality: 6
Cost: 4
Amenities: 5
Total Score: 21.5
19. Radisson Blu Anaheim
This is one of the newest hotels in Anaheim, using the familiar formula of family-friendly hotels, but with a stylish twist. Radisson Blu Anaheim has a ton more personality and a “cool factor” akin to a boutique hotel. Unfortunately, that’s difficult to quantify on our scale.
Pros: Newness; room size; coolness
Cons: Location requires crossing interstate on/off-ramp
Click here to book discounted rates at Radisson Blu Anaheim
Scoring
Distance: 6
Room Size & Quality: 7
Cost: 4
Amenities: 4.5
Total Score: 21.5
18. Howard Johnson Anaheim
Once regarded by many Disney fans as the best off-site hotel near Disneyland, one that was a cut above the typical motel in the area. Thanks to a recent refurbishment and room refresh, the HoJo is once again near the top of this list. It’s rooms are nice and spacious, while its grounds are pleasant. Read and see more in our full Howard Johnson Anaheim Review
Pros: Very good pool areas; spacious rooms; easy walk to the parks
Cons: Dated; overpriced for what it is; lacking some basic amenities
Click here to book discounted rates at Howard Johnson Anaheim
Scoring
Distance: 8
Room Size & Quality: 5
Cost: 4
Amenities: 4.5
Total Score: 21.5
17. Fairfield Inn Anaheim Resort
Fairfield Inn Anaheim Resort is a nicely balanced mid-tier name brand hotel that offers close proximity to Disneyland, solid rooms, and a decent slate of amenities. The rates are slightly higher than the hotels to which it’s adjacent, but it is arguably worth the slightly higher rates. Guests staying here can always recoup those higher prices by eating breakfast at McDonald’s (right in front of the hotel) instead of in the parks. Read and see more in our full review.
Pros: Solid rooms; directly across the street from Disneyland
Cons: Rack rates; parking fee
Click here to book discounted rates at Fairfield Inn Anaheim
Scoring
Distance: 9
Room Size & Quality: 5.5
Cost: 4
Amenities: 4
Total Score: 21.5
16. Wyndham Garden Anaheim
Formerly the Ramada Plaza, the Wyndham Garden Anaheim is an up-and-coming hotel option thanks to its recent top to bottom overhaul and enhancements throughout the property. The rooms are now nice, nothing is dated, and parking is free. About the only downside is the lack of an included breakfast. Read and see more in our full review.
Pros: Solid rooms; good amenities; no parking fee
Cons: Breakfast isn’t included
Click here to book discounted rates at Wyndham Garden Anaheim Hotel
Scoring
Distance: 7
Room Size & Quality: 5
Cost: 5
Amenities: 4
Total Score: 22
15. Anaheim Desert Inn & Suites
Desert Inn & Suites is an unassuming hotel that, honestly, is not even remotely impressive. You put this hotel anywhere else in America, and it’d be hard-pressed to charge more than $50/night. However, the location here is excellent. That, plus the price, makes Desert Inn a great pick for budget travelers looking for a close place to crash. Read and see more in our full Anaheim Desert Inn & Suites Review
Pros: Location; cost; serviceable rooms
Cons: No frills
Click here to book Anaheim Desert Inn
Scoring
Distance: 10
Room Size & Quality: 4
Cost: 5
Amenities: 3
Total Score: 22
14. Hotel Indigo Anaheim
Arguably the trendiest hotel in Anaheim, Hotel Indigo ranks highly because of its combination of location, price, and room quality. Hotel Indigo is great for adults without kids on a budget and is a fun option for honeymooners or others wanting some nightlife, without breaking the bank. Read and see more in our full Hotel Indigo Anaheim Review
Pros: Stylish place for young adults or trendy travelers who want a nice room
Cons: Other amenities could use slight improvement to match room quality
Click here to book discounted rates at Hotel Indigo Anaheim
Scoring
Distance: 7
Room Size & Quality: 5
Cost: 5
Amenities: 4
Total Score: 22
13. Element by Westin Anaheim Resort Convention Center
Another brand-new Anaheim hotel, this one scores points for its sofa sleeper, kitchenette, and spacious design. Key amenities include a free daily breakfast buffet with healthy options and a 24-hour fitness center. Although it’s located nowhere near the convention center, the walk is still a bit long–but easy and down relatively quiet side streets.
Pros: Newness; quality kitchenette; great breakfast
Cons: Longer walk–but an easy one
Click here to book discounted rates at Element by Westin Anaheim Resort Convention Center
Scoring
Distance: 7
Room Size & Quality: 7
Cost: 4
Amenities: 4
Total Score: 22
12. Hyatt House Anaheim
Hyatt House bills itself as an extended stay hotel, but the practical reality is that it’s the perfect family hotel. With in-room microwave and fridge, it’s great for families on a moderate budget. The included breakfast plus the lower price point makes it very appealing. Read and see more in our full Hyatt House Anaheim Review
Pros: Clean, modern rooms with nice bedding and sectional couches; in-room microwave & fridge
Cons: Cost; parking
Click here to book discounted rates at Hyatt House Anaheim
Scoring
Distance: 7
Room Size & Quality: 6
Cost: 4
Amenities: 4
Total Score: 22
11. SpringHill Suites Anaheim Resort
This is the sister property to the higher-ranking Residence Inn; the better floor plan and slightly better amenities give that property a slight, albeit important edge. This Springhill Suites is still one of the best hotels in all of Anaheim, but if both it and the adjacent Residence Inn are available for the same price, we’d recommend choosing the Residence Inn. Read and see more in our full Springhill Suites Anaheim Resort Review
Pros: Clean, modern rooms with nice bedding and sectional couches; family accommodations; included breakfast
Cons: Cost; slightly longer walk
Click here to book discounted rates at the Springhill Suites Anaheim Resort
Scoring
Distance: 7
Room Size & Quality: 7
Cost: 3
Amenities: 5
Total Score: 22
10. Park Vue Inn
Park Vue Inn has dropped thanks to excellent new competitors opening, and Park Vue dramatically increasing its nightly rates. Being one of the closest hotels to Disneyland, Park Vue Inn could phone it in and offer no appeal to guests. Fortunately, this is not the case: the guest rooms are good and there’s a decent slate of amenities. Read and see more in our full Park Vue Inn Review
Pros: Location; price; breakfast
Cons: Weak fitness center; not part of “Disney bubble”
Click here to book Park Vue Inn
Scoring
Distance: 10
Room Size & Quality: 4
Cost: 4
Amenities: 4
Total Score: 22
9. Disneyland Hotel
If money were no issue, Disneyland Hotel would rank #2. Great nods to Disney history, an excellent aesthetic, great pool, and on-site dining options make it an excellent official hotel. What it lacks in terms of grandiosity it makes up for in charm, much like Disneyland itself. The walk is longer, but entirely through Downtown Disney. This is our top pick for Disney geeks and is also a great option for those wanting convenience to Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar. Read and see more in our full Disneyland Hotel Review
Pros: On-site hotel with “Disney magic”; great pool, restaurants, and other amenities
Cons: Price; farther from parks than Grand Californian and some Harbor Blvd. hotels
Click here to request a price quote on a Disneyland Hotel vacation package
Scoring
Distance: 9
Room Size & Quality: 7
Cost: 1
Amenities: 5
Total Score: 22
8. Tropicana Inn & Suites
Tropicana Inn & Suites is one of several hotels on this list that there’s nothing wrong with, but also not much special about. It’s a fine little motel that is safe and has fine guest rooms. There are two ways it is exceptional: in price and location. The orange barons who (probably) own this hotel know it’s on prime real estate, and charge accordingly. Read and see more in our full Tropicana Inn & Suites Review
Pros: Solid rooms; directly across the street from Disneyland
Cons: Somewhat basic motel for price
Click here to book discounted rates at Tropicana Inn & Suites
Scoring
Distance: 10
Room Size & Quality: 5
Cost: 4
Amenities: 3.5
Total Score: 22.5
7. The Westin Anaheim Resort
This is one of two new luxury hotels in Anaheim that target guests wanting upscale accommodations with amenities on par with top tier hotels in major cities. For the most part, the Westin Anaheim delivers on these goals, offering AAA Four-Diamond quality in guest rooms, dining, and common areas. Located directly behind Pixar Pier in Disney California Adventure, its rooftop lounge also offers spectacular views.
Pros: Excellent service & style; rooftop views into DCA
Cons: Not aimed at families; moderate walk
Click here to book discounted rates at the Westin Anaheim Resort
Scoring
Distance: 7
Room Size & Quality: 7
Cost: 4
Amenities: 5
Total Score: 23
6. Courtyard Marriott Theme Park Entrance
Courtyard Anaheim Theme Park Entrance sets a high bar for off-site Disneyland hotels, particularly for families with kids. The overall quality and the reasonably short walk to the park are the strong selling points here, with this hotel being far superior to Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel in both regards. Price is unquestionably the biggest downside, with this hotel costing ~$100/night more than some off-site alternatives; even comparable hotels can be significantly less expensive depending upon when you’re traveling. This is our top pick for families wanting a short walk but who are not on a tight budget. Read and see more in our full review
Pros: Off-site hotel with excellent, family suite-sized rooms.
Cons: Price
Click here to book discounted rates at Courtyard Anaheim Theme Park Entrance
Scoring
Distance: 9
Room Size & Quality: 8
Cost: 1
Amenities: 5
Total Score: 23
5. JW Marriott Anaheim Resort
The other of the two new luxury hotels in Anaheim that’s aimed upmarket, rivaling top tier hotels in major cities. The JW Marriott Anaheim Resort delivers AAA Four-Diamond quality in guest rooms, dining, and common areas. Our scale wasn’t created with luxury properties in mind, so the numbers here are a bit wonky. With that said, the JW Marriott offers quality on par with the Grand Californian, but significantly less expensive. Read and see more in our full JW Marriott Anaheim Resort Review
Pros: Superlative attention to detail, service, and quality.
Cons: Doesn’t cater to families; moderate walk.
Click here to book discounted rates at the JW Marriott Anaheim Resort
Scoring
Distance: 7
Room Size & Quality: 7
Cost: 4
Amenities: 5
Total Score: 23
4. Best Western Plus Anaheim Inn
In many regards, this is very similar to the #1 Best Western Plus Park Place Inn that’s a literal stone’s throw away. That should make sense, as both are owned and operated by the same family. It’s maybe 60 seconds longer of a walk and the amenities aren’t quite as nice, but otherwise, they’re nearly equal.
Pros: On-site location at off-site price; room & bedding quality; breakfast
Cons: Pool
Click here to book discounted rates at Best Western Plus Anaheim Inn
Scoring
Distance: 10
Room Size & Quality: 5.5
Cost: 4
Amenities: 3.5
Total Score: 23
3. Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
If money were no issue, this would be the #1 hotel on this list. Location is the obvious selling point, with a dedicated entrance into Disney California Adventure. For me, it’s the Craftsman style that is the bigger selling point, with tons of well-done details beyond the grandiose lobby. This is one of the absolute nicest Disney hotels in the world, and is even nicer now thanks to the completion much-needed room refurbishment. This is our top pick for high-rollers or anyone wanting the ultimate in Disney luxury. Read and see more in our full Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa Review
Pros: Private park entrance to Disney California Adventure; lavish Californian design
Cons: Most expensive hotel in Anaheim; Arts & Crafts style isn’t for everyone
Click here to request a price quote on a Grand Californian Hotel vacation package
Scoring
Distance: 10
Room Size & Quality: 7
Cost: 1
Amenities: 5
Total Score: 23
2. Residence Inn Anaheim Resort
The Residence Inn Anaheim Resort Convention Center claims the #2 spot by offering exceptional bang for buck for any party looking for more spacious accommodations than a standard hotel room. This Residence Inn was built with families visiting Disneyland in mind, rather than extended stays. Anyone looking to save money by cooking their own meals or wanting more space will love it. This is our top pick for families on a budget or anyone needing more space but not wanting to get two separate rooms. Read and see more in our full Residence Inn Anaheim Resort/Convention Center Review
Pros: High quality, family suite-sized rooms with extended stay amenities (namely, a kitchen).
Cons: Slightly longer walk than the other top picks on this list.
Click here to book discounted rates at Residence Inn Anaheim Resort/Convention Center
Scoring
Distance: 7
Room Size & Quality: 8
Cost: 3
Amenities: 5
Total Score: 23
1. Best Western Plus Park Place Inn
The Best Western Plus Park Place Inn is the closest hotel to Disneyland, located directly across the street from the main entrance. You literally just have to cross the street, and you’re on-site. It’ll take you 10 minutes to go from your hotel room door to being inside Disneyland or DCA. Location isn’t the only selling point of Park Place Inn, which also has nice guest rooms, a solid free continental breakfast with hot items, and other amenities. All of this at a cost that’s a fraction of the price of staying in one of Disney’s official on-site hotels. Read and see more in our full Best Western Park Place Inn Review
Pros: On-site location at off-site price; room & bedding quality; breakfast
Cons: Pool
Click here to book discounted rates at Best Western Plus Park Place Inn
Scoring
Distance: 10
Room Size & Quality: 6
Cost: 4
Amenities: 4
Total Score: 24
While there are over 100 hotels in Anaheim, I do not intend to review them all, as many are either too far away from Disneyland to be practical options or are too shady to bother with. By my count, there are about 60 or so options worthy of consideration, meaning this work-in-progress review and ranking of Anaheim hotels needs about 10 additional hotels to be complete. If you happen to have questions about a hotel at which I haven’t yet ranked here, please feel free to ask and I’ll try to provide any insight I have (or other readers might be able to help).
Planning a Southern California vacation? For park admission deals, read Tips for Saving Money on Disneyland Tickets. Learn about on-site and off-site hotels in our Anaheim Hotel Reviews & Rankings. For where to eat, check out our Disneyland Restaurant Reviews. For unique ideas of things that’ll improve your trip, check out What to Pack for Disney. For comprehensive advice, consult our Disneyland Vacation Planning Guide. Finally, for guides beyond Disney, check out our Southern California Itineraries for day trips to Los Angeles, Laguna Beach, and tons of other places!
Your Thoughts
Okay, now it’s your turn! I mentioned being apprehensive of crowd-sourced opinions of hotels above, but also the benefits of such info. I think that differing opinions would be especially helpful here, as those thoughts would be coming from other Disneyland fans rather than just random visitors to Anaheim. If you’ve stayed at any hotels in Anaheim, please share your thoughts about them in the comments below. The more info and frame of reference you can provide, the better.
I wish you would review the Anaheim Islander Hotel. It’s in the same area as a lot of these other independent hotels, but I can’t find a review for it on the blog. Reviews on TripAdvisor and Hotels.com are generally good, but I would love to get your review, as compared to others you’ve stayed at. It’s a relatively small motel but the price is comparable to some of the other independent motels that you recommend against.
Sorry – correct name is **The Anaheim Islander Inn and Suites**
Very very helpful!
Glad there are actual critics like you! Hope you are able to stay independent. You do public a great service over a large corporate co. telling us where to stay! THX!
Recently stayed two nights at the Courtyard Anaheim Convention Center after three nights in the DVC Villas at the Grand Californian. The Courtyard was fine – clean and comfortable and clearly recently upgraded (as in a lot of USB ports built into the furniture). Walk to Disneyland was not too bad – 20 minutes from hotel to Disney property. For this trip it struck the right balance between cost, proximty to DL, and not being cheap and disgusting. Everything closer was either unavailable, grossly overpriced, or just gross. Parking was $20.00 per night which is less than some of the other hotels in the area. We did not use the dining facilities but they looked nice for this level of hotel. I would recommend staying at the Courtyard Anaheim Convention Center.
I appreciate this post so much! I am wondering, small family of 3 going to disneyland for the first time. I have narrowed down my choices and curious as to your input as I didn’t see some of them on your list.
No massive hotel
Must-have good pool
Must be clean and relatively modern
Mid price point
Doesn’t have to be close to Disney, but we do need transportation option.
What would recommend between:
Hyatt House Anaheim
Hilton Anaheim
Hampton Inn and Suites
Fairfield
Any thoughts on the Kings Inn Anaheim Hotel on W Katella at S Harbor? It’s rated surprisingly highly on all the review sites for a hotel that close and cheap. It’s closer than a lot of the hotels on your list, and much cheaper as well (at least for my visit). I just hope we don’t regret it!
So, an update for anyone else who may be wondering. The hotel was great for a cheap (for this area) 2-star hotel. My roommates were amazed that I only paid a little over $100 a night plus tax for it. (Got it a bit cheaper on Hotels.com than on their own website.) The room was clean and fairly spacious, with a fridge. Parking was FREE, and no “resort fee”. Only about a 20 minute walk to Disney, though we mostly Uber-ed (under $10 each way.) Staff was friendly and even let me check my bags for free on my last day, after I checked out, but was still heading to the parks. They have a pool and hot tub, but it was too cold in November to use them. They have coin op laundry on the premises, for those who need it.
Considering some of the horror stories in some of the reviews of other hotels in the area in this price range, we were prepared for the worst, and very pleasantly surprised. I’d definitely stay there again next time I’m in town.
Any thoughts on Staybridge Suites at the Park for larger families and ease of getting to the parks?
Something that might helpful to include is parking cost and the time required to have the vehicle moved on checkout day. For those of us that go to the park on checkout day, the across the street hotels require you to move your car, which negates the wonderful location. Great reviews and my go to reference for booking a hotel, even after ambu years and many visits!
Would be interesting to hear what you guys think of the Candy Cane Inn that is reopening in September 2022 after a full refurbishment! We are staying there in December and I can’t wait. Your list is pretty good – we have stayed at the Best Western Plus Park Place Inn (LOVED it but we can never get reservations whenever we try to book – it’s too popular), Tropicana (also enjoyed – felt very clean, great staff), Desert Inn (our least favorite by far – I avoided being in the room as much as possible I disliked it so much) and the Howard Johnson (LOVED – would have booked again if the Candy Cane Inn wouldn’t have reopened in time).
Very disappointed in Candy Cane. They cancelled our reservation within one week of arriving, hardly an apology and offered no alternatives but a $50 voucher for a future stay. This is all due to their renovations that went over the time allotted for completion. Owing to a conference in Anaheim, we have been unable to find another hotel nearby. We’ve been very stressed, spent ages looking and will now have to stay very far away, spending more money and having to take a taxi.
They even disconnected their phone for a period so not to deal with customers.