If you’re planning a magical Disneyland getaway, you’re probably wondering where to rest your head after those long days chasing down attractions and meeting characters. And honestly? The Disneyland Hotel might just be calling your name!
Here’s the thing—staying at the original Disney hotel isn’t just about having a place to sleep. It’s about fully immersing yourself in that Disney magic from the moment you wake up until you drift off to sleep with fireworks playing in your headboard. Yeah, you read that right. But we’ll get to that in a minute!
Whether you’re planning your first Disneyland vacation or you’re a seasoned Annual Passholder looking to splurge, this guide has everything you need to know about the Disneyland Hotel! We’re talking history, room options, dining spots, pool areas, and all those little perks that make staying on property worth considering. Let’s dive in!
The Original Disney Hotel
The Disneyland Hotel holds a special place in Disney history as the very first hotel to bear the Disney name. When Disneyland Park opened its gates on July 17, 1955, Walt Disney had a vision for creating a complete vacation destination—but there was one problem. He’d poured everything into building the park itself and didn’t have the funds left over for a hotel!
Walt initially approached his friend Art Linkletter about building a hotel, but Linkletter passed on the opportunity (something he’d later regret while walking past the property, muttering “that’s another million I missed out on” with each step). After striking out with major hotel chains like Hilton and Sheraton, who couldn’t even locate Anaheim on a map, Walt partnered with Texas oil millionaire Jack Wrather.
The original Disneyland Hotel broke ground in March 1955 and opened on October 5, 1955—just three months after Disneyland Park. That first night, only seven rooms were available for guests, with an eighth serving as the reservation area. Rooms cost $15 per night, which would be about $176 in today’s dollars. The hotel featured something revolutionary for its time: both indoor and outdoor registration desks so guests could check in without leaving their cars.
By August 1956, the hotel celebrated its official grand opening with a star-studded event, boasting 204 guest rooms, an Olympic-size pool, 17 shops, restaurants, and cocktail lounges. Over the next several years, the hotel expanded rapidly, growing to over 300 rooms by 1960 and becoming the largest hotel in Orange County.
One of the most iconic additions came on June 11, 1961, when the Disneyland Monorail extended to the hotel, creating a direct transportation link to the park. The hotel continued evolving over the decades, with various towers and expansions added through the late 1960s and beyond!
The Disneyland Hotel we know today underwent a massive renovation and reimagining, transforming into a mid-century modern tribute to Disneyland’s golden era. In September 2023, the hotel welcomed its newest addition: the Discovery Tower, home to The Villas at Disneyland Hotel, which houses 344 Disney Vacation Club rooms. This all-new 12-story tower celebrates Walt Disney Animation Studios with themed accommodations inspired by classic Disney films!
Why Stay at the Disneyland Hotel? The Benefits That Matter
Look, we get it—Disney hotels aren’t cheap. But there are some pretty compelling reasons why thousands of guests choose to stay at the Disneyland Hotel despite the premium price tag!
Early Entry Access (Through January 2026)
One of the biggest perks of staying at any Disneyland Resort hotel is Early Entry, which grants you 30 minutes of early access to select attractions at either Disneyland Park or Disney California Adventure. This extra time can be a game-changer for popular rides like Rise of the Resistance or Radiator Springs Racers.
However, there’s important news to note: beginning January 5, 2026, Early Entry will no longer be available. Disney is replacing it with a limited Lightning Lane perk for resort guests.
Walking Distance to the Parks
The Disneyland Hotel sits at the far end of Downtown Disney, making it about a 7-10 minute walk to the park entrance through the shopping and dining district. While it’s not as close as Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa (which has a private entrance directly into California Adventure), you’re still within the “Disney bubble” and don’t need to drive or take shuttles.
Plus, the walk through Downtown Disney is actually pretty pleasant, with shops, restaurants, and entertainment along the way!
Monorail Access
Here’s a perk that makes the Disneyland Hotel special: it’s located just steps from the Downtown Disney Monorail station. When the Monorail is operating, you can hop aboard and ride directly into Tomorrowland at Disneyland Park, completely bypassing the main entrance crowds. At the end of a long night, this can save your tired feet and get you back to your room faster!
Staying in the Disney Magic
There’s something to be said for never leaving the Disney experience. From the moment you arrive until you check out, you’re surrounded by Disney theming, music, and that intangible pixie dust that makes everything feel special! The hotel plays Disneyland Park music throughout the property, features vintage Disney memorabilia, and includes countless details that transport you back to the park’s early days!
Premium Amenities and Services
The Disneyland Hotel offers amenities you won’t find at off-site hotels, including multiple themed pools with waterslides, character dining at Goofy’s Kitchen, the famous Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar, and direct-to-room service through the Disneyland app. There’s also a full-service spa (at the Grand Californian but available to all Disney hotel guests), fitness center, and various recreational activities!
Choosing Your Room
The Disneyland Hotel features 973 rooms spread across four towers, each with its own distinct personality and perks. Understanding your options helps you pick the perfect home base for your vacation!
The Four Towers Explained
Fantasy Tower – This is the main tower housing the lobby, gift shop, and Goofy’s Kitchen. It’s centrally located and offers either pool views or parking lot views. The Fantasy Tower is great if you like being in the heart of the action and want easy access to shopping and character dining.
Adventure Tower – Located between Fantasy and Frontier, this tower boasts the best views of Downtown Disney and the pool. Club Level rooms with access to the E-Ticket Lounge (soon to be renamed High Key Club) are located here. Adventure Tower puts you close to Trader Sam’s and Tangaroa Terrace.
Frontier Tower – The quietest of the three original towers, Frontier features a spectacular Big Thunder Mountain Railroad model in its lobby. This tower is the farthest from the main entrance but closest to Trader Sam’s and Tangaroa Terrace. Some rooms in this tower even have balconies, which is rare at the Disneyland Hotel.
Discovery Tower (The Villas at Disneyland Hotel) – Opened in September 2023, this is the newest and most modern tower. The Discovery Tower houses Disney Vacation Club rooms but is also available for regular bookings. It features its own beautiful pool area with a Steamboat Willie splash pad, fitness center, and laundry facilities.
Room Categories and What to Expect
Standard rooms at the Disneyland Hotel feature either two queen beds or one king bed and can accommodate up to four guests comfortably. Every room includes the signature light-up headboard that plays “When You Wish Upon a Star” when you press the “goodnight kiss” button. This feature alone has become iconic and is often the first thing guests rave about!
Rooms come with modern amenities including:
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55-inch flat-screen TVs
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Mini refrigerators
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Coffee makers (Keurig style)
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In-room safes
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High-speed WiFi (free)
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H2O bath products
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Hair dryers and irons
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USB charging ports
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Air conditioning and climate control
Premium and Deluxe View Rooms offer higher floors and better views—either overlooking the pool or Downtown Disney. The upcharge is usually around $20-50 per night but can provide glimpses of the parks and fireworks from your room!
Club Level Rooms include access to the E-Ticket Lounge (High Key Club starting summer 2025), which serves complimentary continental breakfast, snacks throughout the day, wine and cheese reception, and evening desserts. These rooms are located in the Adventure Tower on higher floors and offer dedicated concierge service.
Suites and Signature Rooms range from one-bedroom family suites (sleeping up to 6) to elaborate themed Signature Suites. The five Signature Suites—Adventureland Suite, Big Thunder Suite, Fairytale Suite, Mickey Mouse Suite, and Pirate Suite—feature immersive theming with special effects and cost between $4,500-$6,000 per night.
The Villas at Disneyland Hotel offer home-like accommodations with kitchenettes or full kitchens:
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Duo Studios (sleep 2)
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Deluxe Studios (sleep 4)
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One-Bedroom Villas (sleep 5)
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Two-Bedroom Villas (sleep 9)
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Grand Villas (sleep 12)
These DVC rooms feature more space, washers and dryers, full kitchens, and separate living areas—perfect for longer stays or larger families.
Tips for Choosing Your Room
If you want to see fireworks from your room, request a high-floor Premium Downtown Disney View in the Adventure Tower or a high-floor Premium View facing the parks in the Fantasy Tower. Not all rooms have fireworks views, and Disney can’t guarantee specific rooms, but making the request increases your chances.
For families with small children, the Fantasy or Adventure Towers put you closer to the main pool with waterslides. If you prefer a quieter experience, request the Frontier Tower.
Standard view rooms can still be wonderful—you’re spending most of your time in the parks anyway. The real magic is in the theming, amenities, and being on Disney property.
Dining at the Disneyland Hotel
You won’t go hungry at the Disneyland Hotel, that’s for sure. The property offers several dining options that cater to different moods and schedules.
Goofy’s Kitchen – Character Dining
This is probably the most popular restaurant at the hotel, offering buffet-style meals with Disney character interactions. Goofy serves as the main chef, and you’ll meet him along with characters like Minnie Mouse, Chip and Dale, and others throughout your meal.
Breakfast/Brunch features Mickey-shaped waffles and pancakes, omelets made to order, bacon, sausage, fresh fruit, pastries, and even lunch items like chicken and egg rolls. There’s a whole kids’ section with lower counters featuring favorites like chicken nuggets, mac and cheese, and pizza. The dessert station includes soft-serve yogurt with toppings—yes, even at breakfast!
Dinner offers carved meats, fresh fish, seasonal vegetables, salads, fried shrimp, and all those kid-friendly favorites. The same amazing dessert station is available.
Pricing runs about $52 for adults and $31 for kids ages 3-9 at breakfast, with dinner costing $59 for adults and $34 for kids. If you have a Disney Visa Card, you’ll save 10% on your meal.
Reservations are highly recommended and can be made 60 days in advance through the Disneyland app. The atmosphere is lively and fun, perfect for families with young children who love character interactions!
Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar
This place is legendary, and for good reason. Trader Sam’s isn’t just a bar—it’s an experience. The interior is packed with over 1,600 Disney artifacts, references to the Jungle Cruise and Indiana Jones, and special effects that come to life when you order certain drinks!
Order the Uh-Oa, and cast members start chanting while storm effects fill the bar. Get the Shipwreck on the Rocks, and a ship in a bottle “sinks” before your eyes. Order a Krakatoa Punch, and the window looks out on an erupting volcano.
The outdoor patio offers more seating with a calmer atmosphere if you’re not into the indoor excitement. The food menu features small plates, appetizers, and tropical-inspired dishes that pair well with their creative cocktails and mocktails.
Kids under 21 can visit until 9 PM, and there’s a good selection of mocktails for younger guests or non-drinkers. Wait times can be 45 minutes to over an hour, but there’s a walk-up waitlist you can join. Trader Sam’s is open to the public, not just hotel guests!
Tangaroa Terrace Tropical Bar & Grill
This quick-service spot sits right next to Trader Sam’s and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a tropical twist. The menu features items like teriyaki bowls, pulled pork sandwiches, and—most importantly—Dole Whip. You can order ahead using mobile ordering in the Disneyland app, making it super convenient when you’re heading to or from the pool!
The Coffee House
Located in the Fantasy Tower lobby, this is your spot for morning coffee, pastries, and quick snacks. Perfect for grabbing something before heading to Early Entry or getting your caffeine fix before the parks open!
In-Room Dining
Available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, in-room dining lets you order from a menu that changes seasonally. It’s pricier than other options but incredibly convenient when you’re exhausted or want to enjoy a meal in your pajamas.
Pools and Recreation
The Disneyland Hotel really shines when it comes to pool areas. With multiple pools, waterslides, and a splash pad, it’s honestly one of the best pool complexes at any Disney hotel!
The Main Pool Complex (E-Ticket Pool)
The centerpiece of the original hotel, this pool area features two monorail-themed waterslides that are an absolute blast for kids and kids-at-heart. The slides tower over the pool and provide thrills without being too intense for younger swimmers. There’s also a wading pool for little ones and multiple hot tubs scattered around.
The pool area can get crowded, especially during peak seasons, so arriving early to snag chairs is smart. You’ll find poolside cabanas available for rent if you want a more exclusive experience with dedicated service.
Palette Pool at Discovery Tower
This brand-new pool area opened with the Villas at Disneyland Hotel in 2023. It features a whimsical Steamboat Willie splash pad that’s perfect for toddlers and young children, with fountains, waterfalls, and mist effects. The pool itself is more intimate and less crowded than the main pool, offering a quieter atmosphere.
All Disneyland Hotel guests can access both pool areas, regardless of which tower you’re staying in!
Palm Breeze Bar
Located near the Palette Pool, this poolside bar serves cocktails, mocktails, local beers, and light bites. It’s open to both hotel guests and non-guests, making it a great spot to relax even if you’re not staying overnight.
Fitness Center
The all-new fitness center in the Discovery Tower features cardio equipment and weight machines. The hotel also offers fitness classes including yoga, strength training, and aqua aerobics—you can book these through the front desk!
Other Recreation
Throughout the year, the hotel hosts movie nights by the pool, arts and crafts activities, fitness classes, and seasonal events. You can also book hotel tours to learn about the property’s history and design.
Location and Transportation
The Disneyland Hotel sits at 1150 Magic Way, at the far end of Downtown Disney District. Here’s what you need to know about getting to and from the parks!
Walking to the Parks
From the hotel, it’s about a 7-10 minute walk through Downtown Disney to reach the main entrance esplanade between Disneyland and California Adventure. The walk is pleasant and shaded, passing by shops and restaurants. However, it does add up when you’re exhausted at the end of the night or making multiple trips back to your room!
The total distance is approximately 0.5 miles from the hotel entrance to the park gates. If you’re staying in the Frontier Tower, you’ll walk a bit farther than from the Fantasy or Adventure Towers.
The Monorail Option
The Downtown Disney Monorail station sits just a 2-minute walk from the hotel entrance. When operational, the Monorail runs approximately every 10 minutes and takes you directly into Tomorrowland at Disneyland Park. This is especially valuable at the end of the night when you’re tired—you can exit through Tomorrowland, hop on the Monorail, and be back at your hotel in minutes.
Note that the Monorail occasionally closes for refurbishment, so check the Disneyland app before relying on it.
Private Entrance to California Adventure
While not as close as the Grand Californian’s famous entrance, Disneyland Hotel guests can use the private Disney hotel guest entrance near Pixar Pier at California Adventure! You’ll need to show your room key or hotel reservation. This entrance is closer than walking all the way around to the main esplanade.
Parking at the Hotel
If you’re driving, the Disneyland Hotel offers self-parking for $35 per night or valet parking for $65 per night. Both options include in-and-out privileges. There’s also an electric vehicle charging station on-site!
Magic Key holders receive complimentary parking at the theme park garages, so some guests choose to park there instead and walk through Downtown Disney to the hotel. However, overnight parking isn’t allowed in the theme park structures.
Policies, Check-in, and Accessibility
Before you book, here are some practical details you should know!
Check-in and Check-out Times
Standard check-in time is 3:00 PM, and check-out is 11:00 AM. However, you can arrive earlier to check in, store your bags with bell services, and head to the parks while your room is being prepared. You can also use the Disneyland app to check in digitally and receive notifications when your room is ready.
On check-out day, you can continue using hotel amenities including the pools even after checking out—just store your bags with bell services.
Pet Policy
The Disneyland Hotel does not allow pets in guest rooms. Only trained service animals (dogs and miniature horses that perform specific tasks for individuals with disabilities) are permitted. Emotional support animals are not considered service animals under Disney’s policy, which follows ADA guidelines.
If you need to bring a pet, you’ll need to look into nearby off-site hotels that offer pet-friendly accommodations or find a boarding facility in the area.
Smoking Policy
The Disneyland Hotel is completely smoke-free. Smoking, vaping, and e-cigarettes are prohibited in all guest rooms, on balconies, in common areas, and throughout the property. If you’re caught smoking in your room, you’ll be charged a room recovery fee of $250-$500.
There are no designated smoking areas anywhere on Disneyland Resort property, including the hotels, parks, and Downtown Disney. If you need to smoke, you’ll need to exit the property entirely and find an area off-site!
Accessibility
The Disneyland Hotel takes accessibility seriously and offers wheelchair-accessible rooms with features like roll-in showers, grab bars, accessible paths throughout the property, and accessible parking. All areas of the hotel, including pools, restaurants, and common spaces, are designed to accommodate guests with mobility needs.
You can rent wheelchairs and ECVs from third-party companies that deliver directly to the hotel. Service animals are welcome throughout the property, with designated relief areas available!
WiFi and Technology
Free WiFi is available throughout the hotel, including in guest rooms and common areas. The hotel also uses the Disneyland app extensively for check-in, room keys, mobile ordering, and accessing hotel information.
Age Requirements
Guests must be 18 years or older to check in and assume liability for the room. Children under 18 staying in rooms must be accompanied by an adult!
What It Really Costs
Let’s talk numbers because this is probably what you’re most curious about!
Standard rooms at the Disneyland Hotel typically range from $450-$700 per night depending on the season, with prices climbing during peak times like spring break, summer, and holidays. Club Level rooms add $300-400 per night to the base rate. Premium and Downtown Disney View rooms cost an additional $20-50 per night.
The themed Signature Suites run $4,500-$6,000 per night, while the new Discovery Tower Villas range from moderate rates for duo studios up to $5,800+ per night for Grand Villas.
To put this in perspective, off-site Good Neighbor Hotels within walking distance of the parks often cost $150-$300 per night. So yes, you’re paying a premium to stay on Disney property.
Is It Worth It?
This depends entirely on your priorities and budget. If you’re visiting for just one or two days, spending most of your time in the parks, and trying to keep costs down, an off-site hotel makes sense. You’ll save money and still be close to the action.
However, if you want to:
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Maximize your time with Early Entry (through January 2026)
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Never leave the Disney bubble
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Take midday breaks back at your hotel easily
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Let your kids enjoy the amazing pool areas
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Experience the full Disney immersion
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Have access to unique dining like Goofy’s Kitchen and Trader Sam’s
Then the Disneyland Hotel can absolutely be worth the splurge, especially for special occasions or once-in-a-lifetime trips.
Many guests find a middle ground by splitting their stay—spending one or two nights at the Disneyland Hotel to enjoy the experience, then moving to an off-site hotel for the remainder of their trip to save money!
Ways to Save
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Book during off-peak seasons when rates drop significantly
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Look for package deals that bundle hotel and tickets
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Use Disney Visa Card discounts (typically 10% off)
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Check for Magic Key holder discounts if you’re an Annual Passholder
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Monitor sites like MouseSavers.com for room-only discounts
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Use online travel agencies like Orbitz or CheapTickets for additional coupon codes
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Consider joining Disney Vacation Club or renting DVC points for the Villas
Disney typically releases seasonal discounts 2-3 months in advance, offering up to 20% off for stays of 3+ nights during select periods.
Disneyland Hotel vs. Grand Californian
These are the two premier hotels at Disneyland Resort, and choosing between them is a common dilemma.
Grand Californian Wins For:
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Location (private entrance directly into California Adventure)
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Upscale ambiance and Craftsman theming
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Fewer security lines in the morning
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On-site full-service spa (Tenaya Stone Spa)
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More “adult” sophisticated vibe
Disneyland Hotel Wins For:
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Better pools with more waterslides
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More Disney-immersive theming
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Lower pricing (typically $150-200 less per night)
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Character dining at Goofy’s Kitchen
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Monorail access
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More family-friendly atmosphere
The Grand Californian’s biggest advantage is that unbeatable location—you can literally walk through a gate in the hotel and be inside California Adventure in 30 seconds. But the Disneyland Hotel offers more Disney magic per square foot, better recreational options, and usually better value!
For families with kids who love pools and Disney characters, the Disneyland Hotel typically edges ahead. For couples or adults seeking luxury and convenience, the Grand Californian wins!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I see fireworks from the Disneyland Hotel?
Some rooms offer partial views of Disneyland fireworks, particularly Premium Downtown Disney View rooms in the Adventure Tower and Premium View rooms on higher floors of the Fantasy Tower. Club Level guests in the E-Ticket Lounge (High Key Club) have access to a viewing area where the fireworks music is piped in. However, views aren’t guaranteed, and you should request a fireworks view when booking to increase your chances!
How far is the walk from the Disneyland Hotel to the park entrance?
It’s approximately a 7-10 minute walk (0.5 miles) through Downtown Disney from the hotel entrance to the esplanade between the parks. The Monorail station is just a 2-minute walk and can take you directly into Disneyland’s Tomorrowland.
Does the Disneyland Hotel have free breakfast?
No, breakfast is not included with standard rooms. However, Club Level rooms include complimentary continental breakfast in the E-Ticket Lounge. You can purchase breakfast at Goofy’s Kitchen (character dining), Tangaroa Terrace (quick service), the Coffee House, or order in-room dining.
Is the Disneyland Hotel pool heated?
Yes, the pools at the Disneyland Hotel are heated year-round. Both the main E-Ticket Pool and the newer Palette Pool at Discovery Tower maintain comfortable temperatures.
Can non-hotel guests visit Trader Sam’s?
Absolutely! Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar is open to the public, not just hotel guests. You can visit for drinks and food even if you’re staying off-site. However, it’s a popular spot, so expect wait times especially during peak hours!
What age do kids stay free at Disneyland Hotel?
Children under 18 stay free when sharing a room with adults, as long as you stay within the room’s maximum occupancy. You only pay for the room itself, not per person (except for additional adults beyond the standard two).
Do you get early park entry if you stay at the Disneyland Hotel?
Yes, through January 4, 2026, all Disneyland Resort hotel guests receive 30 minutes of Early Entry to select attractions at one park each day. Beginning January 5, 2026, this perk is being replaced with a limited Lightning Lane benefit.
Is parking free at the Disneyland Hotel?
No, parking costs $35 per night for self-parking or $65 per night for valet parking, with in-and-out privileges included. Magic Key holders can park free at the theme park structures if they prefer.
Can you walk from the Disneyland Hotel to California Adventure?
Yes, it’s about a 10-minute walk through Downtown Disney to the main entrance. Additionally, Disneyland Hotel guests can use a private Disney hotel entrance near Pixar Pier at California Adventure by showing their room key.
Does the Disneyland Hotel have connecting rooms?
Yes, the hotel offers connecting rooms and family suites that can accommodate larger groups. When booking, you can request connecting rooms, though availability isn’t guaranteed.
Is the Disneyland Hotel Right for You?
After all this information, here’s the bottom line: the Disneyland Hotel offers an experience that goes beyond just having a place to sleep! You’re paying for convenience, immersion, and memories that extend beyond your park hours!
If you’re celebrating a special occasion, making your first family trip to Disneyland, or simply want to maximize every minute of Disney magic, the Disneyland Hotel delivers. Those light-up headboards, the incredible pools, character dining, and walking through Downtown Disney with a Dole Whip in hand create moments you’ll remember long after your trip ends!
On the flip side, if you’re a budget-conscious traveler who plans to rope drop through park close every day, spending minimal time at your hotel, you might find better value at an off-site property. You’ll save hundreds of dollars per night that you can put toward park tickets, souvenirs, and food!
The beauty of Disneyland Resort is that you really can’t make a wrong choice—whether you stay on-site or off, you’re still just minutes from experiencing the magic of Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure. The Disneyland Hotel simply offers a way to keep that magic going 24/7.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning that magical vacation, and who knows—maybe we’ll see you by the monorail slides this summer!