Best Disney Resorts in Orlando
At Smart VIP Tours, we’ve spent years helping families plan magical Disney vacations far beyond the average park experience. Through our Disney VIP Tours, we’ve walked alongside guests as they’ve explored the wonders of Walt Disney World, and one of the most common questions we hear is: Where should we stay?
As a team that lives and breathes Disney, we know your chosen resort can make or break your trip. Whether you’re looking for a five-star retreat, an upscale adult escape, or a family-friendly luxury hotel near the parks, Orlando offers an incredible selection. Based on our years of firsthand experience guiding guests through the heart of the magic, we’ve compiled this comprehensive guide to the best Disney resorts in Orlando.
Why Stay at a Disney Resort in Orlando
When planning a Disney vacation, the temptation to save a few dollars by staying off-property is real. But over time, we’ve seen how much more seamless, enjoyable, and immersive the experience becomes when guests stay at one of Disney’s official resorts—or a nearby five-star partner hotel that complements the Disney experience.
Staying at a Disney resort offers far more than just proximity to the parks. Guests enjoy exclusive perks like early park entry, convenient monorail, Skyliner, or bus transportation, and direct access to Disney’s renowned concierge service. For families taking advantage of our Concierge Services, these resorts provide the perfect base camp for custom itineraries, park-hopping strategies, and last-minute dining reservations that we help coordinate.
Additionally, the attention to detail within Disney resorts is unmatched. From the Grand Floridian's grand architecture to the Riviera Resort's European elegance, you’re not just booking a hotel—you’re extending the magic of your Disney adventure. When families pair our expert-guided Disney VIP Tours with a luxury resort stay, it creates a fully immersive experience that’s as memorable as it is comfortable.
Whether you’re traveling with toddlers, teens, or adults seeking a refined getaway, there’s something extraordinary waiting for you among the best resorts in Orlando.
Top Five-Star Resorts Near Disney
Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of visiting, touring, and staying in nearly every top-tier resort near Walt Disney World. Based on our experience and the feedback from thousands of clients, here are some of the best 5-star resorts in Orlando that consistently deliver both luxury and convenience.
Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World® Resort
This is, without a doubt, the crown jewel of Disney-area accommodations. Nestled within the Golden Oak community, the Four Seasons Resort Orlando offers a rare blend of five-star sophistication with family-focused amenities. The service is world-class, the rooms are spacious and elegant, and the on-site dining—including the rooftop Capa steakhouse—rivals the best in the country.
Families particularly love the five-acre Explorer Island water park with a lazy river, splash zones, and a serene adults-only pool. When planning a park day, we’ve coordinated many VIP tours with guests staying here, often beginning with a gourmet breakfast and ending the day at the luxurious spa.
If you’re seeking true indulgence and seamless access to Disney, this resort sets the gold standard for five-star resorts in Orlando.
Waldorf Astoria Orlando
Just a short drive from the Disney gates, the Waldorf Astoria Orlando is a sanctuary of elegance. When you walk into the grand lobby, you’re immersed in a timeless atmosphere that perfectly balances business-class service with family-friendly comfort.
We’ve worked with guests who stay here while enjoying our Disney Virtual Tours and in-person services. The spa is one of the best in Central Florida, and the golf course is a favorite among guests looking to unwind between park days. The Waldorf also offers complimentary transportation to the parks, which makes it a practical yet luxurious option for families or couples seeking a more upscale alternative to traditional Disney resorts.
When browsing 5 star Orlando hotels, this name should be at the top of your list.
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
For those who want to stay directly on Disney property and enjoy one of the most iconic resorts in the world, the Grand Floridian remains unmatched. As one of Disney’s original flagship hotels, it delivers timeless Victorian charm alongside modern luxury.
Many of our guests book Concierge Services and request to start their VIP tours right from the Grand Floridian’s lobby. With monorail access, impeccable dining (including the award-winning Victoria & Albert’s), and picturesque views of Magic Kingdom fireworks, this resort is perfect for those who want the very best of Disney at their doorstep.
Whether you're looking for the best hotels in Orlando, Florida, near Disney or just want a stay that complements the magic of your visit, this one delivers every time.
Disney’s Riviera Resort
A newer addition to Disney’s resort lineup, Riviera Resort brings the elegance of the European coast to Central Florida. Inspired by Walt Disney’s travels through the French and Italian Riviera, this resort blends artistry, culture, and modern design in a stunning package.
Guests love the quick access to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios via Disney’s Skyliner, and the resort’s layout offers a more boutique experience than larger properties. Many of our Disney VIP Tours include families staying here, and they rave about the deluxe studio rooms and rooftop dining at Topolino’s Terrace.
Riviera is one of our top recommendations if you’re searching for upscale hotels in Orlando with character and charm.
JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa
The JW Marriott Bonnet Creek is one of those resorts that always surprises and delights. Tucked into a quiet corner near Disney’s back gate, it offers sleek modern rooms, a rooftop terrace, and a stunning spa facility that has quickly become a guest favorite.
We’ve coordinated several Universal Studios Tours and SeaWorld VIP Tours for guests staying here, and they appreciate the resort’s blend of tranquility and proximity to all three major parks. This JW Marriott property is an excellent option for guests looking for a resort experience that feels fresh and elevated without sacrificing convenience.
It’s easy to see why it ranks among the top resorts Orlando has to offer.
What to Look for in a Top Resort Near Disney
Choosing the right resort isn’t just about luxury—it’s about finding a property that matches your style of travel and enhances your experience in the parks. Over the years, we’ve guided thousands of guests through their Disney vacations, and here are the most critical factors we recommend considering when selecting the best resort in Orlando.
Proximity to the Parks
Being close to the parks is a game-changer, especially when using one of our Disney VIP Tours or planning early-morning Genie+ strategies. Resorts with monorail, Skyliner, or bus access allow you to move quickly and efficiently, especially when park hopping or returning for a midday break. Resorts like Disney’s Grand Floridian and Riviera Resort provide immediate access to Magic Kingdom or EPCOT, giving you a huge advantage when planning your day.
Resort Amenities
Look for resorts that offer more than just a place to sleep. The best resorts in Orlando are destinations in themselves—with world-class dining, spas, pools, fitness centers, and lounges. Families plan entire rest days around amenities like water parks at the Four Seasons or the tranquil spas at Waldorf Astoria and JW Marriott. These features add value to your stay and offer downtime between park adventures.
Family-Friendly vs. Adults-Only Atmosphere
Some resorts cater specifically to families, offering themed rooms, character dining, and activities for kids. Others are better suited for adult getaways with more refined atmospheres, wine tastings, or championship golf. Understanding what kind of experience you’re after helps us at Smart VIP Tours recommend the best option when planning your stay.
Dining and Convenience
Having great dining options on-site is a big deal when staying for a week or longer. We always look for resorts with a mix of casual and fine dining, grab-and-go options, and in-room service. Top-tier options like Topolino’s Terrace, Capa, and Victoria & Albert’s make dining part of the Disney magic.
Concierge Services and VIP Perks
If you’re considering luxury tours or personalized experiences with us, staying at a resort that aligns with concierge services is key. Our Concierge Services pair perfectly with resorts that offer in-house planning teams and VIP check-in desks, making coordinating transportation, reservations, and last-minute changes easier.
In short, the top resorts in Orlando combine elegance, efficiency, and immersive theming—all of which contribute to a smoother, more enjoyable Disney experience.
Best Resorts in Orlando for Families vs. Adults
Over the years, we’ve helped plan trips for every type of traveler—from families with toddlers to couples celebrating anniversaries. And one of the biggest factors in choosing a resort is the type of experience you want to have. Here’s how we recommend choosing between the best family-friendly and upscale resorts tailored more to adults.
Best Resorts for Families
When you’re traveling with kids, the resort becomes part of the magic. Properties like Disney’s Riviera Resort, Grand Floridian, and the Four Seasons are ideal for families. They offer kid-friendly pools, themed rooms, on-site character dining, and easy park access. The amenities make a huge difference in keeping young ones entertained and allowing parents to relax.
We often pair families with these resorts while also arranging Disney Virtual Tours in advance to help them explore park layouts, dining, and ride priorities before they even arrive. This hybrid approach of digital planning and on-site luxury creates a smooth, stress-free trip for families.
Best Resorts for Adults
If you're traveling as a couple, or planning a friends' trip without kids, the five star resorts Orlando offers can feel like private retreats. The Waldorf Astoria, JW Marriott Bonnet Creek, and Four Seasons all excel at providing quiet, refined environments. Spa treatments, adult-only pools, wine tastings, and elegant fine dining are just a few perks you’ll find.
We often recommend these for guests doing adult-only Universal Studios Tours or those who want to blend theme park energy with moments of calm. These resorts offer a more elevated experience, without sacrificing the convenience of being close to Disney.
Whether planning a multi-generational family vacation or a quiet weekend escape, Orlando has a resort tailored to your needs. And with our deep experience crafting tailored itineraries, we're always here to help you find the perfect match.
Tips for Booking a 5-Star Resort Near Disney
Securing your stay at one of the best resorts in Orlando is more than a matter of clicking “book now.” To make the most of your Disney vacation, here are some expert tips we share with clients who use our full-service planning and tour experiences.
Book Early for Peak Seasons
Resorts near Disney—especially the five-star ones—fill up quickly during peak times like spring break, summer, and the holidays. We recommend booking your accommodations 6–12 months in advance when possible. This gives you better rates and allows us to reserve your VIP tours, dining, and transportation without limitations.
Consider a VIP Tour + Resort Package
Many of our clients combine luxury resort stays with personalized VIP tours. These custom packages often include private transportation, Genie+ optimization, dining reservations, and more. Bundling these services together creates a seamless experience, and we work with you to craft an itinerary that’s tailored to your family, your pace, and your vacation goals.
Use a Disney-Experienced Travel Planner
One of the reasons we created Smart VIP Tours is because we saw how overwhelming Disney vacations can be without insider help. We’re more than just a tour company—we’re Disney vacation experts who live and breathe this world daily. From your resort stay to your last park ride, we’ll guide you through the process with clarity, confidence, and care.
Look for Added Perks and Upgrades
Many resorts offer additional perks such as spa credits, dining discounts, and suite upgrades when booked through specific programs. We always help our clients look for these bonuses and guide them through which offers provide the most value.
Ultimately, choosing one of the best resorts Orlando has to offer is just the first step. Pair it with a personalized experience crafted by our expert team, and your Disney vacation becomes more than a trip—it becomes a lifetime memory.
Ready to start planning? Explore more about who we are and how we make magic happen by visiting Our Story.
