Which Disneyland Hotel Should I Stay at?

If you are planning a trip to the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, one of your biggest decisions will be where to stay on your visit. The three Disneyland hotels have distinct looks, amenities and price ranges. Which Disneyland hotel you should stay at will depend on the kind of vacation you wish to have, the needs of your party, and budget considerations.

For those wishing the classic Disney experience, the best choice may be the original Disneyland Hotel. Built in 1955 and remodeled several times, this hotel strives to add Disney magic into every aspect of a guest’s stay. Rooms feature specially-designed quilts with maps of Disneyland on them, Mickey-mouse lamp holders, and many other small touches. A centerpiece of the hotel is the Neverland Pool, a Peter-Pan themed water area featuring a large waterslide and tropical landscaping. Room rates at this hotel begin at about $250 US Dollars (USD) per night, although package deals with tickets may be less expensive, and annual passholders can take advantage of special rates during off-season periods.

The Disneyland Hotel is accessed through the Downtown Disney shopping area, which offers a variety of dining and shopping options. This hotel is also close to the Monorail, which provides quick service to and from the Tomorrowland section of the park. The hotel features 969 rooms and four restaurants, including the quiet Wine Cellar, an excellent place for adults to escape for a quick drink.

For the budget minded Disneyland visitor, the least expensive Disneyland hotel is Paradise Pier. The high-rise building contains 489 rooms and a pool area atop the hotel. The building has a tropical island feel and is very kid-oriented. Rooms begin at around $180 USD. The downside to the hotel is it is the furthest from the parks, and requires some walking. If anyone in your party has difficulty walking, this may not be the best choice.

Paradise Pier has a relaxed and casual atmosphere. Dining include Yamabuki, a Japanese sushi spot, and the PCH Grill, a casual pizza and burger restaurant. Many guestrooms feature spectacular park views, but do tend to cost extra.

For luxury that only Disney can achieve, you might wish to try visiting Disney’ Grand Californian Hotel and Spa. This beautiful, artistic accommodation was opened in 2001 as part of the major expansion of the resort, and features a private entrance into Disney’s California Adventure theme park. This Disneyland hotel is built in the arts and crafts style of early 20th century California, and features stained glass-windows, intricately carved metal lamps, and a large stone fireplace in the enormous lobby.

The Grand Californian is the most adult-friendly of the Disneyland hotels, featuring the Mandara Spa and world-class Napa Rose restaurant. Guests may enjoy a game of chess or backgammon and a glass of California wine in the Hearthstone lounge, or sample a delicious buffet at the beautifully decorated Storyteller’s Café. The style and design of the hotel is such that many day-guests to the park stop into the lobby to rest or visit the restaurants. The Grand Californian is the most expensive Disneyland hotel, beginning at $380 USD per night, depending on the season.