These Disney World Hotels Get the Same Perks at a Fraction of the Price

As a Disney Vacation Club Member, I have been lucky enough to stay at most of the deluxe resorts at Disney World and can vouch for the incredible atmosphere and unique themes within each resort. However, for most families that want an upgraded Disney World experience, the deluxe resorts are often out of their price range or do not offer the same amount of amenities as other resorts.

For those looking for the feel of a deluxe resort without the high price tag, there are several amazing third party resorts that may have a cheaper price. Although they are not owned by Disney, these resorts are very conveniently located on or close to Disney World property and offer the same level of deluxe resort experiences. Additionally, many of these hotels are considered Walt Disney World Good Neighbor Hotels, meaning although they are not owned by Disney, they offer the same level of accommodations, transportation to the parks, and a Guest Services desk to help plan your Disney vacation and purchase tickets.

We often enjoy some of these third party Disney resorts, and below I will get into each of these resorts and the different Disney-related perks they offer!

Walt Disney World Hotel Perks

Arguably the best advantage of staying at any Disney World hotel is the early entry perk, which allows all resort guests to enter any Disney World theme park 30 minutes before the public. This gives resort guests a huge head start on experiencing the most popular attractions such as TRON: Lightcycle / Run, Frozen: Ever After, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, or Avatar: Flight of Passage.

Walt Disney World is home to dozens of hotels that range in price categories including value, moderate, and deluxe. The deluxe resorts, such as the infamous Grand Floridian Resort, offer a more upgraded experience compared to the value and moderately priced Disney World hotels. This includes a more convenient location, faster transportation to the parks (such as the monorail), nicer rooms with balconies, table services restaurants, and more.

The price tag of some of these official Walt Disney World hotels are not always in the budget for many guests that may cause them to look at other options. Many guests might be surprised to learn that there are many resorts that offer the same perks as staying on Disney World property along with their own exclusive benefits.

Shades of Green

Shades of Green is an amazing third party hotel that is exclusive to military members, veterans, and their families. Operated by the U.S. Department of Defense, this hotel offers deluxe accommodations at a much more affordable price than many other Disney resorts. One of the biggest advantages of Shades of Green is it's location near Disney's Polynesian Village Resort, giving guests easy access to Magic Kingdom and other Disney World parks. The hotel also has amenities such as spacious rooms designed for families, multiple dining options, a fitness center, and two outdoor pools. It's a popular choice for military families seeking the benefits of staying at a Disney World deluxe resort while enjoying the comforts and pricing tailored to service members.

Shades of Green guests enjoy several Disney perks, similar to those staying at Disney-owned resorts. These include early park entry, which allows guests to enter the theme parks 30 minutes before the general public. The hotel also offers complimentary transportation to the Disney parks, ensuring easy access without the need to worry about parking.

Swan and Dolphin

The Swan and Dolphin resorts, located in the heart of the Disney property near EPCOT and Disney's Hollywood Studios, offer a unique blend of luxury, convenience, and Disney magic. Managed by Marriott International, these sister resorts provide guests with a premium experience, combining elegant design with modern amenities. The Swan features Westin Heavenly Beds and a more tranquil, boutique-like atmosphere, while the Dolphin is larger with Sheraton accommodations and a livelier ambiance. Both resorts are renowned for their striking architecture, featuring large, decorative swans and dolphins on their roofs that you can often spot from different parts of Disney World property. There are over 20 dining options between the two hotels, including award-winning restaurants like Shula's Steak House, and offer extensive recreational activities, including pools, a full-service spa, and fitness centers.

Staying at the Swan and Dolphin comes with several key Disney perks. Guests can enjoy early theme park entry as well as extended evening hours at select parks for more relaxation and enjoyment. Complimentary transportation via boats and buses is available to all Disney parks, and the close proximity to both EPCOT and Hollywood Studios allows for easy access, including a scenic walk or boat ride. While the resorts are not officially Disney-owned, they still offer the magic of staying on Disney property while benefiting from Marriott Bonvoy points and service standards. Although I absolutely love the Swan and Dolphin resorts, the biggest downside is that all guests have to pay for parking if they bring a car.

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DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Orlando

The DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Orlando Resort is an all-suite hotel conveniently located in the Disney Springs area, offering a spacious and comfortable option for families and larger groups visiting Walt Disney World. Each suite features a separate living room, bedroom, and kitchenette, providing ample room for relaxation after a day at the parks. The hotel includes various amenities, such as a heated outdoor pool, fitness center, tennis courts, and an on-site restaurant and lounge. Guests are welcomed with the brand's signature warm chocolate chip cookie upon check-in, adding a personal touch to their stay.

As an official Walt Disney World Good Neighbor Hotel, the DoubleTree Suites offers several Disney-related perks. Guests can take advantage of complimentary shuttle service to all four Disney theme parks and Disney Springs, making it convenient to travel around the resort without needing a car. The hotel's proximity to Disney Springs also allows guests to enjoy world-class shopping, dining, and entertainment options just a short walk or shuttle ride away.

Drury Plaza Hotel Orlando Lake Buena Vista

The Drury Plaza Hotel Orlando Lake Buena Vista is a newer addition to the list of hotels near Disney World, offering a family-friendly and value-driven experience in a prime location just minutes from the Disney parks. This hotel is known for its warm hospitality, complimentary amenities, and spacious rooms, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers who don't want to sacrifice comfort or convenience. The hotel offers a range of amenities, including a resort-style outdoor pool, a 24-hour fitness center, and an on-site restaurant. Families particularly enjoy the complimentary daily breakfast buffet, along with evening snacks and beverages, a unique Drury Hotels feature called the “5:30 Kickback,” which offers light fare and drinks each night.

As an Official Walt Disney World Hotel, the Drury Plaza Hotel provides several perks for Disney visitors. Guests benefit from complimentary shuttle service to all four Disney theme parks and Disney Springs, ensuring easy and stress-free transportation. The Drury Plaza Hotel is one of my top suggestions for families looking for a great value option, free breakfast, and the same Disney perks as the Disney-owned hotels.

Four Seasons Resort Orlando

Although the price to stay at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando is similar to the Disney World deluxe resorts, many love to stay here due to it's elegant and upscale setting and exclusive amenities. Nestled in a secluded, private area within Disney property, this five-diamond resort offers stunning accommodations, including spacious rooms and suites with balconies overlooking the Disney parks or tranquil lakes. The resort offers a wide range of amenities, from an adults-only pool and full-service spa to an expansive water park with a lazy river and waterslides.

Four Seasons is also known for their gourmet food options such as the rooftop restaurant Capa, which offers breathtaking views of the nightly Disney fireworks, and Ravello, an Italian restaurant known for its Disney character breakfast. For those seeking the best of both worlds, Disney magic and five star relaxation, the Four Seasons Orlando delivers the best possible experience.

Hilton Orlando – Buena Vista Palace and Lake Buena Vista

If you plan to visit Disney Springs at some point during your Disney vacation and are looking for a less expensive resort, I highly recommend either the Hilton Orlando Buena Vista Palace or Lake Buena Vista locations. Both are conveniently connected to Disney Springs via a pedestrian bridge. The Buena Vista Palace location offers modern and spacious rooms with stunning views, a lazy river, and an outdoor pool bar. The Lake Buena Vista location has a similar level of comfort including two heated outdoor pools and a 24-hour fitness center.

The Hilton Orlando is a familiar resort that can bring many guests the same level of deluxe-style comfort and Disney perks at a fraction of the price. Guests can still enter the theme parks 30 minutes in advance and enjoy complimentary shuttle service to the parks.

Holiday Inn Orlando

Another great value-friendly Walt Disney World Good Neighbor Hotel is the Holiday Inn Orlando, which is located just a short walk away from Disney Springs. This hotel offers an outdoor heated pool, hot tub, fitness center, and on-site dining at the Palm Breezes Restaurant and Lounge.

This is another top recommendation whenever someone asks me for lower cost hotels that offer similar amenities to deluxe resorts at Disney World. Guests can take advantage of free transportation to the parks, early park entry, and a very convenient location near Disney Springs.

Renaissance Orlando Resort and Spa

The Renaissance Orlando Resort and Spa is another great budget-friendly hotel located in the Disney Springs area. Travel parties with kids will love hanging out at this hotel as it offers a game room, heated zero-entry outdoor pool and hot tub, and other great perks. This hotel also offers the Indulged Spa and Wellness Retreat which offers a serene experience for adults as well. Guests can enjoy the outdoor pool bar, American Kitchen Bar & Grill, and The Grove Café & Brew which offers Starbucks coffee and light snacks.

The Renaissance offers so many deluxe-level perks at a value-level price. With it's close location to Disney Springs, dining options, Disney World early entry perk, spa, and more, it makes it one of the best “off property” hotels near Disney World.

Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek

Another luxury style resort is Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek, which offers something for everyone in the family. This resort has it all – spacious rooms with scenic views, an 18-hole golf course, a large pool with lazy river, and world-class dining options including Michelin-starred restaurants.

Yet another added benefit to this resort is that guests have access to all amenities at it's sister resort, the Walford Astoria Orlando resort (detailed next). Signia offers all of the great Disney World perks along with so many great amenities which can completely upgrade your resort experience during your next trip to Disney World!

Waldorf Astoria Orlando

Signia's sister resort, Waldorf Astoria Orlando, has the same level of deluxe-level amenities with the same perks as staying at a Disney World resort. Guests can also enjoy access to a 18 hole golf course, rejuvenating spa, and gourmet dining options including the popular Bull & Bear restaurant.

Although not necessarily significantly cheaper than staying on Disney property, guests can enjoy the same, if not more, amenities while still enjoying complimentary transportation to the parks and early theme park entry.

Wyndham Lake Buena Vista

Lastly, the Wyndham Lake Buena Vista resort is a great lower-cost option that offers similar amenities to deluxe level Disney World resorts. Guests have several perks including its super close location to Disney Springs, two pools including a kids splash zone, and various dining options including breakfast with Mickey-shaped waffles! Guests can also enjoy Joffrey's Coffee Shop, which is the same popular coffee retail you often see around the Disney parks.

Wyndham has a convenient 24/7 store, a casual restaurant open for lunch and dinner, as well as a lounge offering cocktails. The Wyndham is another great family-friendly resort that has it all, without paying the deluxe-level prices!

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