5 Reasons to Stay at the Disneyland Hotel

A trip to Disneyland is a dream come true for many families, and even for us annual pass holders, it is still special every time. When Disney called and said they were inviting & hosting us to an event where we could stay overnight at the Disneyland Hotel, I jumped at the chance! We have stayed at the Grand Californian, but never at the Disneyland Hotel. I couldn’t wait to tell the hubby and kids. From the moment we arrived to moment we checked out, our experience was nothing short of magical. Here is a breakdown of the top 5 reasons to stay at the Disneyland Hotel.

1. The Location

One of the main reasons we LOVE the Disneyland Hotel is its unbeatable location. You are just a short walk away from Disneyland Park &/or monorail, making it so easy to get to the park early for rope drop or to take a break in the middle of the day when the kids (and parents!) need to recharge.

Access to Downtown Disney is even closer. Whether you want a quick bite to eat, to shop for Disney souvenirs, or just enjoy the lively atmosphere, Downtown Disney is right at your doorstep. It is so nice to have these options just a few minutes away from the room, without the need to drive or deal with parking.

2. Early Park Entry

One of the biggest perks of staying at the Disneyland Hotel is the Early Park Entry benefit. As hotel guests, you are granted access to Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park 30 minutes before the general public each day. This allows you to experience popular attractions with shorter wait times before the crowds starts to build.

3. The Rooms: Disney Magic in Every Corner

Our room at the Disneyland Hotel was a true reflection of the magic that surrounds the entire Disney experience. We stayed in a standard room with 2 queen-sized beds, and a fold-out couch. The decor was charming and whimsical, with nods to Disney’s rich history. The headboards above the beds have built-in lights that lit up with music—our kids loved pressing the button to hear the sweet lullaby before bed.

The room was spacious and comfortable, with all the amenities you’d expect from a luxury hotel. The bathroom was well-lit, with a Mickey Mouse-shaped details and fixtures that were a cute touch.

One of the standout features was the view. Our room had a great view of the Disneyland pool area, which was fun. You can also request a room with a fireworks view, then you wouldn’t have to leave your room to experience the magic of the night.

4. The Pools & Slides

The Disneyland Hotel has an awesome pool area that is a highlight of any stay. With three separate pools to choose from, including a dedicated children’s pool, there was something for everyone. The coolest part is the two waterslides that wind their way around the pool area. The slides are perfect for both kids and adults, offering just the right amount of thrill without being too intense.

There’s also the Monorail-themed pool, which is inspired by Disney’s iconic monorail system. It was fun for the kids to pretend they were aboard the monorail as they splashed around, and the unique design really added to the immersive experience.

5. Dining Options

The Disneyland Hotel offers a range of dining options, so there’s something for every type of craving. Our favorite is Goofy’s Kitchen, a character dining experience where we have had the opportunity to meet classic Disney characters like Goofy, Mickey Mouse, and Pluto while enjoying a buffet-style meal. We didn’t go this visit, but recommend it if you have the time for a sit-down meal. The food is delicious, with everything from classic breakfast options like Mickey-shaped waffles to lunch and dinner favorites like roasted chicken and pasta.

Another highlight is Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar, which is an adults-only oasis that serves tropical drinks and small bites. It is a fun place to unwind after a long day at the parks, with a laid-back, Polynesian-inspired atmosphere.

If you’re looking for something more casual, the Tangaroa Terrace serves delicious quick-service meals, which I highly recommend, and The Coffee House where you can grab a quick pastry and coffee before heading to the park in the morning.

Honorable Mentions:

Service: Disney’s Attention to Detail

What always stands out throughout our stays at Disney is the service. Disney is known for its impeccable attention to detail, and that was evident everywhere at the Disneyland Hotel. Whether it is the friendly valet who greeted us upon arrival or the concierge, the cast members go above and beyond to ensure their guests have a seamless and enjoyable experience.

The Lobby & Overall Esthetic

Walking into the Disneyland Hotel lobby felt like stepping into a piece of Disney history. The lobby is large, airy, and filled with Disney memorabilia that transports you back in time to the park’s early days. From vintage photos of Disneyland to life-sized statues of beloved Disney characters, there’s so much to see and appreciate. You will also find lots of hidden (or not so hidden) treasures around the property like a giant Mickey hat or Mickey topiaries.

The Bottom Line: A Truly Magical Experience

Staying at the Disneyland Hotel was an experience in ways we hadn’t expected. The hotel’s location, beautiful rooms, fun pools, and delicious dining options made it feel like the magic of Disneyland never stopped—whether we were in the park or back at the hotel. For families visiting Disneyland, staying at the Disneyland Hotel offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the Disney experience from start to finish.

Have you stayed at the Disneyland Hotel? What do you think of our 5 Reasons to Stay at the Disneyland Hotel? Share your experience in the comments below!