The Disneyland Resort boasts three Disney-owned and Disney-operated hotels: Disneyland Hotel, Paradise Pier, and the most recently built Grand Californian. These are supplemented by 41 “Good Neighbor” hotels—they’re “off property,” but very close to the magic. You'll also find more motels and hotels near the Disneyland Resort, as well as many near other Southern California attractions.

To help you choose the right hotel for you, we divide this chapter into four sections: Disney Resorts, Good Neighbor Hotels, Very Cheap Hotels Near Disneyland, and Nearby Attraction Hotels. We introduce the first two sections with a helpful hotel comparison chart filled with facts, amenities, and services. This is followed by general information, reservation tips, and detailed descriptions of each hotel. We devote a generous amount of space to Disney hotels—we even include room layouts, maps, and photos. This isn’t necessarily because Disney resorts are our favorites (though we confess they tend to be). Rather, the Disney hotels are generally of the most interest to our readers and there’s much to say about them. Be aware that all three Disney hotels would be considered "Deluxe" at Walt Disney World, and their rates reflect that—as well as the higher costs of Southern California. Alas, we just can’t devote as much space to the other hotels, but we try to provide a photo and basic information for each, and always give you web links to find more information on your own.

Start with the helpful Hotel Checklist on the next page. Compare it with your preferences to uncover the hotel category that meets your needs. You may find the sidebar below helpful in deciding whether to stay “on property” (at a Disney hotel) or “off-property.” Then carefully read the hotel descriptions, which begin on page 39. When you’re ready, use the LIVE! Lodging Worksheet  to record your dates, preferences, and reservation options.

To Stay On Property or Off For most, the decision to stay on property or off depends on budget. It’s generally less expensive to stay off property, as prices are often lower and you may find more discounts. On the other hand, the on-property hotels may offer more bang for your buck and, in the end, save you money. If you stay on property, you’re always within walking distance of the parks, you get guaranteed admission on busy days (with a ticket), room charging privileges, package delivery, on-site character meals, and that delightful Disney magic. Personally, we prefer to stay on property, budget permitting—for us, time is money, so the ability to walk anywhere within the resort is important. Besides, being immersed in the magic is what it is all about for us.