Planning a Disneyland trip is exciting… until hotel prices hit you 😅
The good news? You don’t need to stay inside the Disney resorts to enjoy the park. There are many affordable hotels near Disneyland that are either a short walk away or offer easy shuttle service—and they can save you a lot of money. If you want to save money, look for hotels on Harbor Boulevard (walking distance) or hotels that use the Anaheim Resort Transportation (ART) shuttle. These options are cheaper, convenient, and perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers.
Why Staying Near Disneyland Matters
Staying close to Disneyland means:
- Less time commuting
- Fewer transportation costs
- Easy breaks during the day
- Less stress with kids or tired feet
When the park is just a walk or shuttle ride away, your trip feels smoother and more relaxed.
Affordable Hotels Within Walking Distance to Disneyland
These hotels are usually 5–15 minutes on foot from the main entrance. Most are along Harbor Boulevard, which is the best area for budget stays.
Best Budget-Friendly Walkable Hotels
1. Anaheim Desert Inn & Suites
- 5-minute walk
- Family-friendly rooms
- Free breakfast included
2. Park Vue Inn
- Directly across the street
- Clean and simple
- Great for short stays
3. Best Western Plus Anaheim Inn
- Reliable comfort
- Free breakfast
- Good reviews from families
4. Candy Cane Inn
- Slightly longer walk (10–15 minutes)
- Quiet and cozy
- Includes breakfast and shuttle option
Why choose walking distance hotels?
You can leave the park for naps, meals, or rest without worrying about transport.
Affordable Hotels With Shuttle Service to Disneyland
If walking isn’t ideal, shuttle hotels are a great alternative. Many use the ART shuttle, which runs all day between hotels and Disneyland.
Popular Budget Hotels With Shuttle Access
1. Hotel Lulu, BW Premier Collection
- ART shuttle access
- Modern rooms
- Often cheaper than walkable hotels
2. Anaheim Majestic Garden Hotel
- Private shuttle (not ART)
- Larger rooms
- Great for families
3. Sheraton Park Hotel at the Anaheim Resort
- Comfortable stay
- ART shuttle nearby
- Good deals during off-season
Why choose shuttle hotels?
They are usually cheaper, quieter, and better if you’re staying multiple nights.
Walking Distance vs Shuttle Hotels: Pros & Cons
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Walking Distance Hotels | No shuttle wait, easy breaks, very convenient | Slightly higher price, busy area |
| Shuttle Hotels | Lower cost, quieter, larger rooms | Shuttle wait times, fixed schedules |
Real-World Examples
Family with young kids:
A family stayed at Anaheim Desert Inn and walked back midday for naps. This saved them from cranky kids and late nights.
Couple on a budget:
A couple booked Hotel Lulu and used the ART shuttle. They saved over $100 per night compared to Disney hotels and had no issues with transport.
Solo traveler:
A solo traveler chose Park Vue Inn for its location. Being able to walk back after fireworks was a huge win.
FAQs (People Also Ask)
What is the cheapest area to stay near Disneyland?
The cheapest area is Harbor Boulevard, especially hotels slightly farther from the entrance or those using shuttle service.
Are Disneyland shuttles free?
Most are not free. ART shuttles usually charge a daily or multi-day fee, but it’s still cheaper than parking.
Is walking to Disneyland safe?
Yes. The walking routes are well-lit, busy, and filled with other park visitors.
How far is too far to walk to Disneyland?
Anything over 20 minutes can feel tiring after a full park day. If it’s farther than that, a shuttle is better.
Can I avoid paying for parking by staying nearby?
Yes. Walkable or shuttle hotels help you avoid Disneyland parking fees completely.
Final Verdict
If you want the best balance of price and convenience, staying near Disneyland—but not inside Disney property—is the smart move.
- Choose walking distance hotels if convenience is your top priority.
- Choose shuttle hotels if you want to save more money and don’t mind a short ride.
Either way, you’ll spend less on your hotel and more on what actually matters—enjoying Disneyland 🎢✨