Disney Hotels or International Drive? The Ulimate Guide from an Orlando Expert

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When it comes to choosing accommodation in Orlando, I can speak from a wealth of experience. Having visited Walt Disney World in Florida over 25 times across my 30 years (which sounds ridiculous, I KNOW) and having sampled a variety of lodgings both across International Drive and within the Disney/Universal precincts, I’ve garnered a deep understanding of what each offers. “Disney hotels or international drive?” is a question people have asked myself and my family a number of times, and I’m here to finally share my Orlando expert insights to help guide your decision.

When you’re planning an adventure that includes WDW, Universal, and SeaWorld, the question of should I choose Disney hotels or International Drive will definitely arise in your planning. TLDR; If you’re leaning towards exploring all the parks, I’d recommend a staying at an International Drive hotel. However, your situation may be completely different even if you are looking at the full theme park experience. Keep reading to find out whether you should stay in Disney hotels or international drive because this Orlando expert is here to break everything down – fair warning, I have a lot of experience so it’ll be a long one. Here’s what we’ll cover:

1. Disney hotels or International Drive
2. Is it Really Worth it to Stay at a Disney Resort?
   1. Disadvantages of Staying at Disney Hotels.
   2. Are Disney Hotels too Expensive? 
3. Is it Really Worth it to Stay on International Drive. 
   1. Disadvantages of Staying on International Drive 
4. Transportation Options – Disney Hotels or International Drive 
   1. How Far is Disney World from International Drive 
   2. Cheapest Way from Disney World to International Drive 
   3. Transportation Perks for Disney Hotel Guests 
   4. Additional Transportation Options 
5. Hotel Recommendations 
   1. International Drive Hotels 
   2. Disney Hotels 
6. Final Thoughts

Disney Hotels or International Drive

When plotting your magical trip to Orlando, a pivotal question arises of whether you should stay at Disney hotels or International Drive. Really, the answer lies in what your goals are for your holiday. Below, I’ve laid out a top line comparison that aims to give you a snapshot of both choices, before we dive deeper into each area.

Disney Hotels:

Proximity to Magic: Staying at a Disney hotel places you right in the heart of the magic, with shorter commutes to the parks.

Exclusive Perks: From Early Theme Park Entry to free transportation, the perks of staying on-site are undeniably attractive.

Integrated Experience: With themed rooms and character breakfasts, the Disney magic doesn’t end when you leave the parks.

Price Point: Generally, Disney accommodations come at a premium, reflecting their exclusive benefits and prime location.

International Drive Hotels:

Diverse Choices: Ranging from budget motels to luxury condos, International Drive offers a variety of accommodations to fit every traveler’s needs.

Proximity to Other Attractions: Beyond Disney, International Drive places you closer to attractions like Universal Studios.

Cost-Effective: Many options, especially for larger families, come at a fraction of the cost compared to Disney hotels.

Greater Flexibility: With a wider array of dining, shopping, and entertainment options nearby, you have more freedom to customize your vacation.

Is it Really Worth it to Stay at a Disney Resort?

Despite the price, staying at a Disney resort definitely has its charm. You’re immersed in the magic from dawn till dusk. The convenience of being just minutes away from the parks is a game-changer. However, it comes with a price tag. Disney hotels tend to be pricier than many other accommodations in Orlando. While the experience is uniquely magical, you’re definitely paying through the nose for that premium.

The allure of staying at a Disney resort lies in all of the perks that come with it. Let’s explore some of the perks exclusive to Disney resorts to help make your decision a bit clearer.

Extended Evening Hours: All Disney hotels grant guests some attractive benefits, but Extended Evening Hours are reserved exclusively for Disney Deluxe Hotel and DVC resort guests. Whether you’re staying at the All Star Sports or the luxurious Grand Floridian, you’re sure to relish these perks.

Early Theme Park Entry: This is arguably the most sought-after advantage of lodging at a Disney hotel. Even though select partner hotels at Disney World offer it, nothing beats the convenience and early access provided by the Disney properties themselves. If you’re an early riser eager to be among the first at the park gates, this perk might turn your trip into an efficient, magical adventure.

MagicBands Discounts: Guests of Disney hotels have the privilege to pre-order MagicBands or MagicBand+’s at a discounted rate (around $10 off per band). While these bands aren’t handed out complimentary anymore, the discount does help in saving some dollars.

Early Access to Lightning Lane: Another Disney hotel perk is the ability to purchase individual Lightning Lane times at 7 AM, before non-resort guests. Although this comes at an additional cost, the early access can ensure you skip longer wait times later in the day.

Transportation Benefits: “Disney hotels or International Drive?” becomes a less daunting question when you consider transportation. Disney hotel guests are assured free transportation to all Disney parks, water parks, and Disney Springs. While some non-Disney accommodations might offer shuttles, the seamless connectivity of Disney transportation adds to the convenience.

Parking Perks: Guests staying at Disney hotels not only enjoy free parking at their respective resorts but also complimentary parking at the parks. If you’re okay with driving, this becomes an excellent way to evade the Disney Transport crowds.

Charging with Magic Bands: Though Magic Bands aren’t complimentary for Disney hotel guests anymore, those purchasing them can charge their expenses directly to their room, avoiding the constant need to pull out a credit card.

Disadvantages of Staying at Disney Hotels

While these perks can really seal the deal when it comes to the question of Disney Hotels or International Drive,  there are obviously certain disadvantages to consider:

Cost: Staying in the heart of the magic often comes with a hefty price tag. Even the value resorts within Disney can be pricier compared to similar standard accommodations outside the resort. For budget-conscious travelers, the cost can be a significant deterrent.

Limited Non-Disney Activities: If you’re staying at a Disney hotel, your immediate surroundings are predominantly Disney-themed. For those who’d like a break from the magic or want to explore Orlando’s other offerings, this can be a bit limiting.

Dining Costs: While Disney hotels offer a range of dining options, they tend to be on the pricier side compared to off-site alternatives. Moreover, if you’re not on a Disney dining plan, meals can quickly add up.

Transportation Time: While Disney’s transportation system is comprehensive, it’s not always the fastest. Depending on the hotel and park you’re visiting, you might find yourself waiting or traveling longer than anticipated.

Booking Difficulties: Especially during peak seasons, securing a reservation at a Disney hotel can be challenging due to high demand.

Are Disney Hotels too Expensive?

One thing that I keep mentioning is the price of Disney hotels vs International Drive. When considering the cost of staying at a Disney hotel, it’s clear that Disney offers a huge spectrum of pricing. Want a lavish experience? Then Disney hotels are the place to be. As cited by All Ears, if you’re looking for a crazy opulent stay, the Polynesian Village Resort offers suites that can cost upwards of $3,000 per night. And if you think that’s premium, the Grand Floridian, which many regard the flagship WDW resort, can surpass even that.

However, let’s not get too carried away with the high-end. There’s hope, even if you’re budget-conscious! Disney’s value resort, Pop Century, starts at a more affordable $105/night during off-peak seasons, proving that Walt Disney World caters to both luxury seekers and those looking for value. It’s evident Disney prides itself on a premium in-resort experience, so while one might argue the term “too expensive” is subjective, staying on-site is generally costlier than offsite options. But remember, with that price comes an experience that is distinctly Disney.

Is it Really Worth it to Stay on International Drive?

Navigating the accommodation options in Orlando can be overwhelming. However, International Drive, often dubbed “I-Drive”, stands out as a favoured choice for many travellers. Personally, I have stayed on I-Drive many times. From being a kid staying in small hotel rooms at the Ramada Plaza with my family, to staying near I-Drive in slightly bigger apartments like Westgate Lakes. Known for its bustling atmosphere, affordable hotels, and proximity to all of the major Orlando attractions, I-Drive offers more than just a place to rest your head.

Affordable Hotels: I-Drive boasts hundreds of budget-friendly hotels, offering great value for money. Keep reading for my personal recommendations for budget-friendly International Drive hotels.

Close to Theme Parks: Located closer to many of the major theme parks, staying on International Drive reduces car/taxi commute times for fun-filled days. If you don’t hire a car, I would recommend getting Ubers to and from the parks. It will be slightly cheaper option as you need to factor in all day parking at the theme parks into your renting budget – which these days surpasses $30 per day. Ubers simply pick you up and drop you off where you need to be.

Complimentary Shuttles: Almost every hotel on I-Drive offers free shuttle services to theme parks, shopping malls, and other key attractions, making transportation a breeze if you decide against hiring a car. There is no direct route to the parks from International Drive, so these shuttles are a god send for quick transfers to the parks.

Great Atmosphere: Whether you’re comparing International Drive to Kissimmee or another location, I-Drive stands out for its bustling environment. A plethora of restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues are just a stone’s throw away.

I-Ride Bus Service: If you’re not keen on driving, the I-Ride Bus shuttles up and down I-Drive, allowing you to easily hop on and off, covering the length and breadth of the resort area. Get Your Guide actually does a great deal for an I-Ride hop on hop off pass starting at £4. Opt for a 1, 3, 5, 7, or 14 Day Orlando I-Ride Trolley Pass for endless chances to hop on and off at countless attractions, eateries, and shops within the International Drive resort area. Book the hop on and off pass here.

Flexibility: Choosing between Disney hotels or International Drive is a matter of personal preference. International Drive offers its unique advantages in that you have the flexibility to to get to and from the theme parks easily.

Proximity to Supermarkets: Ideal for those on a budget, or just wanting to save some money on the expensive Orlando holidays. International Drive is close to major supermarkets like Publix and Walmart. This is particularly useful if you prefer to prepare some of your own meals to bring to the theme parks. Food in all of the parks is notoriously expensive, especially for families. A lot of hotels and resorts on International Drive have built in kitchens so you can prepare breakfast before heading out, and pack lunch to enjoy at the parks at a fraction of the price.

Disadvantages of Staying on International Drive

Traffic Congestion: International Drive is a major hub, which means it can get really busy, especially during peak tourist seasons like Easter holidays, summer holidays and around half terms. This can lead to traffic delays, especially if you’re driving yourself.

Less Disney Immersion: While International Drive is close to many attractions, staying there means you’ll miss out on the complete immersion experience that Disney resorts offer. You won’t be surrounded by Disney themes 24/7, which some Disney aficionados might miss.

Potential Shuttle Limitations: Although International Drive hotels usually offer complimentary shuttles, these might not run as frequently as one would hope. They might also have fixed schedules which might not align with your personal plans.

Tourist-centric Pricing: Being a major tourist area, some restaurants and shops on International Drive might have slightly inflated prices compared to off-the-beaten-path locations. However, keep in mind prices will be significantly cheaper than Disney hotels.

Noise: Given its bustling nature, some parts of International Drive can get noisy, especially in the evenings. This might be a concern for light sleepers or those looking for a quiet retreat.

Less Personalised Service: With the sheer volume of tourists, some larger hotels on International Drive might offer less personalised service compared to smaller, boutique accommodations or the premium service you’re paying for at Disney resorts.

Distance from Attractions: While International Drive is close to many theme parks, it might be further away from certain attractions you’re interested in, necessitating additional travel time.

Transportation Options – Disney Hotels or International Drive

One of the most critical aspects of any vacation is figuring out how to get from point A to B. Orlando, with its sprawling attractions, is no exception. So, whether you’re staying on International Drive or at a Disney hotel, understanding your transport options can make or break your trip.

How Far is Disney from International Drive?

Distance is crucial when considering where to stay. Travel time can range from 20 to 30 minutes by car, given the traffic. Though not right at Disney’s doorstep, it’s relatively close and easily accessible. The distance between International Drive and Disney World typically ranges from 5 to 9 miles, depending on your specific starting point and destination within the resort. With minimal traffic, you can expect a drive time of approximately 15-20 minutes. However, during peak hours or seasons, this might increase due to congestion.

Cheapest Way to Disney World from International Drive

I-Ride Trolley to Public Bus: The I-Ride Trolley can get you to several transit stops where you can then catch a Lynx public bus to Disney World. This is one of the most cost-effective methods, but it might also be the most time-consuming. As mentioned above, Get Your Guide does a deal for an I-Ride hop on hop off pass for endless chances to hop on and off at countless attractions, eateries, and shops within the International Drive resort area. If you’re staying on International Drive, I’d recommend booking this just for ease. You can book the hop on and off pass here. 

Lynx Public Bus: Direct public bus services like Lynx can be a straight-forward and affordable option. Some routes will take you directly from International Drive to Disney World. A single ride costs $2.00, and for those with a LYNX discount fare ID, it’s $1.00. Ensure you have the exact fare ready, as bus operators cannot provide change. Only one-dollar and five-dollar bills are accepted. If you need to transfer buses, transfers are free, but ensure you ask the driver for a transfer when boarding. It’s crucial to note that these transfers are limited to 90 minutes and are not valid on the same link or for round trip purposes. Direct public bus services like Lynx can be a straight-forward and affordable option. Many resorts specially those in the SeaWorld/Westwood area of International Drive, are conveniently located on the Lynx public bus route, ensuring easy transportation to Disney.

Uber/Lyft: Rideshare services like Uber often come out as a more cost-effective choice, especially if you’re in a group and able to split the fare. Let’s break down the numbers:

• UberX: An average ride from International Drive to Disney costs around $24, suitable for up to 4 passengers.
• UberXL: For larger groups, you might spend approximately $36
• UberXL with Car Seat: For families with young children, the price hovers around $46

In contrast, renting a car might come with daily rental fees, insurance costs, parking charges at theme parks, and fuel expenses. When you factor in all these costs, taking an Uber, especially for shorter stays or fewer trips to the parks, can often be the more economical choice. Renting a car will undeniably offer you some more freedom in choosing Disney Hotel or International Drive.

Transportation Perks for Disney Hotel Guests

Disney hotel guests enjoy the benefit of the extensive Disney transportation system, which includes buses, monorails, boats, and the Disney Skyliner. This free transportation connects all Disney hotels to theme parks, water parks, and Disney Springs. Parking is free for Disney hotel guests both at the resorts and the theme parks. This can be a significant saving and a way to avoid the general hassle of finding a spot.

Additional Transportation Options

Hotel Shuttles: Many hotels on International Drive offer complimentary shuttles to Disney World and other attractions. While not exclusive to Disney resort guests, these shuttles provide a direct route to the parks, making your commute hassle-free.

Renting a Car: If you value flexibility, renting a car might be a suitable option. However, do factor in parking costs, which can be as much as $30/day at theme parks, and can really put a dent in your budget. For instance, the Cypress Pointe Resort in Lake Buena Vista stands out as an affordable condo-style resort option near Disney. However, be prepared for the additional cost of parking there. Renting a car you will also need to factor in traffic delays, car insurance and petrol.

Disney Hotels or International Drive: Hotel Recommendations

Now, I’ve stayed in many hotels in Orlando over my 25+ times visiting, and I can honestly say you are spoilt for choice. It’s insane the amount of hotels are actually on offer over a huge budget range. I could write a whole extra blog on these recommendations (which I might, one day!). For now, I’ve picked out my personal favourite hotels on International Drive and within the Disney Resort – which are geared up to suit luxury, mid-range and budget travellers.

International Drive Hotel Recommendations

1.Luxury: The Ritz Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes

While not, technically, on International Drive, the nearby Ritz-Carlton stands out for luxury seekers on International Drive. Famed for its world-class service and totally lavish amenities – guests can indulge in a rejuvenating spa experience, tee off at an exclusive golf course, and dine in gourmet restaurants, all while being strategically located near Orlando’s prime attractions.

Prices start at around £500 per night, and get gradually more expensive depending on the room/suite you are looking for. Check availability and book via booking.com

2. Mid-Range: Westgate Lakes Resort and Spa

This is where I spent most of my childhood. I’ve stayed over over a dozen times, and my brother even had his evening wedding reception here. So I can personally vouch for how amazing, budget and family friendly, and ideally located Westgate Lakes is. Perfect for those seeking quality amenities at an affordable price. This resort offers multiple outdoor pools, a full-service spa, and various dining options (like on-site restaurants, a Pizza Hut) giving guests a balanced mix of luxury and value.

3. Budget-Friendly: Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando

An Orlando holiday is super expensive for a lot of people. For those prioritising affordability while weighing Disney hotels or International Drive options, Rosen Inn emerges as a favourite. Without sacrificing quality, it offers three inviting pools, diverse dining venues, and is a short stroll from Pointe Orlando’s bustling shopping and entertainment hub – which is great for cheap(er) dining.

The Rosen Inn is strategically situated just 3.2 km from SeaWorld and offers complimentary shuttle services to Universal Orlando. Nestled a mere 1.3 km from the Orange County Convention Center, the hotel stands as an epitome of convenience for its guests. With three inviting outdoor pools and on-site dining options, the inn ensures a delightful stay for its patrons.

Prices for Rosen Inn start at around £70 per night. Check prices and availability via booking.com

Disney Hotel Recommendations

1. Luxury: Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

For those seeking absolute opulence at WDW, the Grand Floridian is the crown jewel. As mentioned before, this is Disney’s flagship hotel. This Victorian-inspired hotel exudes sophistication with its gourmet dining venues, comprehensive spa services, and direct monorail access to the Magic Kingdom. In other words, it’s lavish. Those wanting to stay on site at Disney and get the ultimate experience with access to every single Disney Hotel perk mentioned above, the Grand Floridian is the choice for you.

Rooms start at around £800 per night, and it gets gradually more depending on the type of room you pick. The three bedroom grand villas with a lake view usually go for around £3000 per night.

2. Mid-Range: Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort

If deciding between Disney hotels or International Drive, but still trying to stick to a mid-tier budget, Coronado Springs provides a delightful blend. Infused with the essence of Spanish, Mexican, and Southwest American cultures, this picturesque lakeside hotel boasts a mix of traditional elements, signature Disney nods, and contemporary amenities.

3. Budget-Friendly: Disney’s Pop Century Resort

For families or budget travellers, the best Disney Hotel for affordability will be Pop Century. A celebration of the iconic eras of the 20th century, guests can revel in themed experiences, dedicated Disney transportation, and budget-conscious rates.

As a Value Resort, Pop Century offers a more affordable nightly rate and might not boast the extensive amenities found in Moderate and Deluxe Resorts. Nevertheless, it remains a sought-after choice, largely due to its competitive pricing. While it might not exude the opulence of Disney’s Grand Floridian or the tropical ambiance of the Polynesian Resort, Pop Century certainly holds its own unique appeal.

Many opt for Pop Century over other resorts because of its accessible transportation options, with both bus and Disney Skyliner at its doorstep. The resort’s rooms, though compact, are smartly designed to ensure guests have all essentials after a tiring day at the theme parks.

Final Thoughts: Disney Hotels or International Drive?

In the end, the best place to stay depends on your priorities:

• For a Full Disney Experience: If you’re a Disney aficionado and the thought of waking up to a view of Cinderella’s Castle thrills you, the premium for a Disney hotel might be worth it. The added conveniences and perks can also enhance your experience.
• For a Well-Rounded Orlando Trip: If your trip isn’t solely focused on Disney and you want to explore other attractions, or you’re traveling on more of a budget, International Drive is an excellent choice. Its proximity to multiple attractions and a range of accommodations can make your trip diverse and wallet-friendly.

Remember, wherever you choose to stay, it’s the memories you create that count the most. Whether it’s the enchantment of Disney or the bustling vibe of International Drive, Orlando promises a magical experience. Do you want to know more about staying in Disney Hotels or International Drive? Leave me a specific question in the comments below and I’ll try and answer for you! Or, leave a comment below if you have any expert tips I haven’t covered off in this guide.

Need some more Orlando inspo. Check out my pictorial blog of photos to inspire your next magical trip to Orlando.