Monorail line outside of hotel

7 Best Hotels at Magic Kingdom & Why You Should Stay There

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For many, Magic Kingdom is synonymous with Walt Disney World, and I mean that both literally and figuratively. (Imagine their surprise and delight when they find out that isn’t even a quarter of what the Central Florida resort has to offer.) 

Although other Disney World resorts certainly have their perks, like the charming atmosphere of the BoardWalk Inn or wild residents at Animal Kingdom Lodge, there’s something truly magical about staying just a short monorail or boat ride away from Cinderella Castle. 

But, which hotel near Magic Kingdom is right for your group? Keep reading for the best Magic Kingdom resorts, as well as why you should stay close to this iconic theme park. Let’s get started! 

Lodge with foliage and walkways

Staying at the Magic Kingdom Resorts

From the iconic deluxe hotels on the resort monorail loop to those nestled along nearby Bay Lake, the Magic Kingdom Resort Area offers the perfect blend of connected convenience, away-from-it-all vibes and, if you’re lucky, breathtaking views of the park across Seven Seas Lagoon. 

While not quite as diverse as the properties in the Hollywood Studios & Epcot Resort Area, there’s something to suit close to everyone, from luxurious (and expensive!) suites, villas and overwater bungalows to rustic campsites and (almost) everything in between. 

Hotels at Magic Kingdom Park

Including DVC properties and resorts not operated by Disney, there are technically twelve Disney World hotels close to Magic Kingdom (thirteen, if you count The Campsites and Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort separately). They include:

Disney Magic Kingdom Hotels 

  • Contemporary Resort
  • Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground (including both cabins and campsites)
  • Grand Floridian Resort
  • Polynesian Village Resort
  • Wilderness Lodge

Disney Vacation Club Deluxe Villa Resorts Near Magic Kingdom

Polynesian Hotel Lobby

 

  • Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
  • Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
  • Copper Creek Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
  • Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows
  • The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian

Non-Disney Operated Hotels Close to Magic Kingdom

  • Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort
  • Shades of Green

Sadly, there aren’t any value resorts near Magic Kingdom – the vast majority are deluxe hotels or villas –  making this one of the pricier places to stay in Walt Disney World. So, if you’re looking cheap hotels near Magic Kingdom, your best bet is Fort Wilderness, which straddles the line between a moderate resort and a wallet-friendly campground. If you’re eligible to stay there, the Shades of Green military hotel is also an affordable alternative. 

4 Reasons Why You Should Stay at the Magic Kingdom Resort Hotels

Staying in this whimsical corner of Walt Disney World boasts its fair share of perks for resort guests, including hotels walking distance to Magic Kingdom, convenient and complimentary transportation, a tempting array of dining options, unique entertainment and, of course, the incredible view. 

Traveling Between the Park, Your Hotel and Neighboring Resorts Is a Cinch

Grand Floridian Hotel with monorail line

Without a doubt, one of the biggest benefits of staying at a hotel near Magic Kingdom is how easy it is to get to the park. Depending on which resort you choose, you’ll have access to a few different transportation options, making it easy to get to and from the theme park or a dining reservation at another Magic Kingdom hotel.

The most recognizable transportation offering at the Magic Kingdom Resort Area, the Disney Monorail, isn’t just a quick and convenient way to get around – it’s an experience. This Walt Disney World institution connects three hotels – the Contemporary, Polynesian Village and Grand Floridian – with the Magic Kingdom and Transportation & Ticket Center. Shades of Green is also just a short walk away from the Polynesian’s monorail station. 

Looking for a fast, simple way to get to the magic without having to face the crowds? Stay at one of the resort loop monorail hotels. While the Contemporary Resort is just a short walk across the street, guests staying at the Grand Floridian or Polynesian Village can get their steps in on their way to the park on the walking path around Seven Seas Lagoon. Talk about a scenic way to stay fit at Disney World!

Water transportation is available at most of the hotels at Magic Kingdom, with the exception of Shades of Green and the Four Seasons. Though a bit slow, you’re sure to love the beautiful views during the boat trip to the park. Finally, for those staying a bit further from the action at Fort Wilderness, the Wilderness Lodge or the Four Seasons, you can also opt to take the bus

There Are a Ton of Dining and Entertainment Options to Enjoy

Pool area with grass and swings

Getting around the Magic Kingdom Resort Area is a piece of cake, thanks to all those convenient, complimentary transportation options. This opens up a world of places to eat and things to do. Not only do the resort monorail loop, walking path and water taxis make getting to Magic Kingdom a breeze, but resort hopping, too. 

A buffet of restaurants and bars awaits you at the Magic Kingdom resorts. So, make it your mission to eat at a few different hotels during your visit or go on a monorail bar crawl. Then, while you’re there, consider taking advantage of some of the resort’s recreational offerings, like eating DOLE Whip as you watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks from the Polynesian Village beach, searching for Hidden Mickeys at the Wilderness Lodge or playing a round at Disney’s Magnolia, Palm or Oak Trail golf courses

And whatever you do, don’t miss the Fort Wilderness Campground. From the horseback riding and wagon rides out of the Tri-Circle-D Ranch to canoe rentals and archery lessons, you’ll find it all. When it’s happening, end your night with Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Campfire Sing-A-Long, one of our favorite free things to do at Disney World. 

You Can’t Beat the Views

Monorail line and train coming out of hotel

There’s no doubt that the Magic Kingdom Resort Area is one of the prettiest parts of Walt Disney World. Between the statuesque beauty of Cinderella Castle and the pine forests of Fort Wilderness and the Wilderness Lodge, there’s no shortage of stunning views. If you’re lucky enough to snag a theme park view room at certain hotels, you can even catch the fireworks from the comfort of your room. 

Some Magic Kingdom Hotels Feel Away from It All – In a Good Way

As exciting as it can be to stay in the heart of the action along the resort monorail loop, it can also feel a little crowded. If you’d like to get off the beaten path and (sort of) away from the masses, journey into the wilderness. Fort Wilderness and the Wilderness Lodge, that is. 

While not as close and convenient as those with a monorail station, these rustic retreats feel secluded from the rest of the resort – very much welcome after a day spent battling the crowds. Or, for the ultimate escape, stay at the decidedly un-rugged Four Seasons Resort Orlando, located in the ultra-exclusive Golden Oak community. 

7 Best Hotels Near Magic Kingdom 

Water Tower with foliage and path

So, what are the best hotels near Magic Kingdom? It depends on who you’re traveling with. With so many different resorts and rooms in a variety of set-ups, there’s a home for groups of all sizes. 

However, keep in mind that unless you’re at a budget-friendly campsite, splitting the costs of a villa on an adult Disney trip or a member of the armed forces staying at Shades of Green, a night at one of these deluxe resorts is going to cost you. But, on the bright side, you get to enjoy luxe perks like Extended Evening Hours, incredible hotel dining and, if you decide to splurge, even club-level access

Now, without any further ado, here are the best Magic Kingdom resort hotels for you and your group. (For the sake of simplicity, we’ve opted to group the deluxe resorts and their villa counterparts together, as well as the Fort Wilderness cabins and campsites.)

Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Best for Magical Views, Nostalgic Vibes and a Convenient Location 

Monorail into Contemporary Hotel

Wanting a quintessential stay with fairytale-like views? Book a room at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. One of the original Walt Disney World hotels, this A-frame beauty with a monorail running through its atrium is truly iconic. Just across the street from the Magic Kingdom’s main entrance, it’s also incredibly convenient.

While the guestrooms are bright and mod with nods to The Incredibles, a gorgeous mural designed by Disney Legend Mary Blair, photos in the lobby and the hotel’s Steakhouse 71 restaurant pay tribute to Magic Kingdom’s beginnings. And don’t miss the resort’s other delicious dining options, like all-day character dining at Chef Mickey’s or Californian cooking with a bird’s-eye view at California Grill.

Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground

Best for Budget Travelers or Large Groups with a Sense of Adventure

Without a doubt, the most affordable place to stay near Magic Kingdom is Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. Home to more than 800 campsites, 350 cabins and some can’t-beat recreational offerings, this woodsy retreat is a dream for thrifty, outdoorsy travelers with an adventurous streak. Though not as cheap as the campsites, the cabins are perfect for big groups.  

During your stay, be sure to try out such exciting activities as canoe and kayak rentals, archery lessons, horseback and wagon rides, a Segway tour through the forest and more. You can even say hello to the horses of Walt Disney World at the Tri-Circle-D Ranch.

Lodge with trees and walkway

While you’re there, don’t miss out on two of the resort’s down-home dining options. Trail’s End Restaurant features comfort food, moonshine and bunches of charm, while the Hoop-Dee-Doo Revue dishes up hilarious hijinks in the Wild West alongside buckets of fried chicken and ribs. 

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Best for Understated Elegance and Sophisticated Dining with a Magical Location 

For those looking for a little luxury with a sprinkle of pixie dust, stay at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. As Walt Disney World’s flagship property (AKA its most expensive), this Victorian-inspired hotel is perfect for anyone wanting to travel like a VIP. 

Aside from the laidback yet lavish setting, walkable location and relaxing on-site spa, the highlight of staying at the Grand Floridian is the amazing dining. Whether you’re looking for a casual, sit-down restaurant with an upscale twist, an elegant bar themed after Beauty and the Beast or some of the best signature restaurants at Disney World, you’ll find it at the Grand. 

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

Best for Family-Friendly Fun or a Romantic Retreat in an Enchanting, Tropical Setting 

Another original Walt Disney World hotel, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is a lush waterfront oasis with plenty of island vibes. For the family, stay in a Moana-themed room in one of the hotel’s longhouses or, for something more romantic, try an over-the-water bungalow.

While the Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show is no more, you can still enjoy some delectable dining experiences, along with one of the best bars at Disney World: Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto. When you aren’t eating at ‘Ohana or Kona Café, grab a DOLE Whip from Pineapple Lanai and head to the Lava Pool, one of our favorite hotel pools

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

Best for Families of All Sizes Looking for a Laidback Escape from It All

When it comes to family-friendly hotels at Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is one of our favorites. While you can’t book a room with bunk beds anymore, this rustic resort styled after the stately national park lodges of the American West offers laidback guestrooms and spacious villas the whole family will love. You can even stay in a waterfront cabin with a hot tub on the private porch at the resort’s Copper Creek Villas. 

Geyser inside lobby of hotel

And don’t forget the amenities! The dining here is some of the best, whether you’re in the mood for bottomless BBQ or a regal character dining experience at Storybook Dining at Artist Point with Snow White. We also love sipping on cocktails as the Electrical Water Pageant floats by at Geyser Point Bar & Grill, an amazing open-air pool bar. When you aren’t eating, go for a swim surrounded by nature or watch an eruption by the hotel’s resident geyser. 

Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort

Best for a Luxurious Getaway for Kids and Adults Alike

While the Grand Floridian is all about understated elegance, the Four Seasons Resort Orlando takes Walt Disney World to a whole new level of luxury. The only hotel near Magic Kingdom not operated by Disney, the Four Seasons boasts an array of luxe perks like an exclusive setting, plush rooms, decadent dining, golf and its very own water park

We’ll be honest – a night here is expensive. But, if you can afford it, you’re sure to be impressed. For breakfast, hang with Goofy and his pals during breakfast at Ravello. Then, go for a relaxing float down the lazy river or treat yourself to an indulgent spa treatment. Finally, don’t miss the views and dinner from Capa, the hotel’s stunning rooftop restaurant

Shades of Green

Hotel building by lake

Best for Current and Former Military Service Members and Their Families

Open exclusively to current and former members of the armed forces, Shades of Green is Disney World’s military resort. Located just across the street from the Polynesian Village Resort, the hotel doesn’t just offer an affordable and convenient place to stay for service members and their families, but it’s also home to the largest standard guestrooms on property and a few Disney golf courses. 

That completes our list of the best Disney Magic Kingdom resorts. Have you tried any of the hotels on our list? Which one is your favorite? Let us know in the comments! Wish you could make your stay a little more affordable? Stretch your dollar further with our discounted Disney World tickets.