When we plan a Disneyland trip, one of the first questions I get is whether it’s worth staying at one of the Disneyland Resort hotels. And I get it—hotel costs can add up, and there are a lot of off-site options nearby. But after doing both more times than I can count, I can honestly say: staying on property really does change the experience.

Here’s why we love it—and what you might not realize you’re getting when you book a stay at a Disneyland Resort hotel.

Early Entry Without the Stress

One of the biggest perks of staying at a Disneyland Resort hotel is Early Entry. Hotel guests can enter either Disneyland Park or Disney California Adventure Park (with valid admission and a theme park reservation) 30 minutes before official park opening.

That might not sound like much—but those 30 minutes can make a huge difference. Most guests can scan into the park before it opens, but they’re held back behind ropes until rope drop. Resort guests, on the other hand, can actually access certain lands and attractions during that early entry window. It’s a great time to ride popular attractions with little to no wait and get a jump start on your day.

Plus, staying on-site just makes mornings smoother. You don’t have to factor in traffic, trams, or long walks from the parking garage. You can roll out of bed, grab your ears, and go. That makes it so much easier to actually make early entry or rope drop, which is when the park is at its most peaceful. And the BEST photos are taken during those early mornings when the big crowds aren’t there yet.

Convenient Access to Lightning Lanes

At Disneyland, guests need to enter a park before they can start making Lightning Lane selections if it wasn’t added to your ticket in advance.

Resort guests can easily tap into the park as soon as gates open, get their Lightning Lane lineup ready, and then hop back out for breakfast or take their time getting to their first ride. That quick in-and-out flexibility can be a game changer, especially for families who are trying to pace themselves.

Room Charge Perks + Dining Access

You can charge food and merchandise directly to your hotel room using the Disneyland app, which makes it easy to keep your wallet tucked away while you’re in the parks or shopping at Downtown Disney.

Staying at a resort hotel also gives you Preferred Dine Access—meaning you have access to a limited number of reservations at select hotel table-service restaurants during your stay. If you’ve ever tried to snag a brunch reservation at Storytellers Cafe last-minute, you know that’s no small thing.

Extras You Can’t Get Anywhere Else

Disneyland Resort hotels have a kind of magic you just don’t get outside the bubble. From the decor to the surprise character sightings, the atmosphere adds something special to your trip. You can find Mickey-shaped treats at the pool, order Dole Whip from Tangaroa Terrace, or enjoy spontaneous fun like Disney movie nights and crafts in the hotel lobby.

Some of our favorite low-key moments have happened at the hotel pool or during a surprise encounter with Chip and Dale in the lobby.

Fireworks Viewing Without the Crowds

Guests staying at any of the Disneyland Resort hotels can head to the rooftop deck of Pixar Place Hotel to watch fireworks with the music piped in. It’s a relaxed way to end the day, especially if you have little ones who might not make it to the end of the show in the park.

And if you’re staying in a deluxe, club-level room, you get access to private lounges with continental breakfast, snacks throughout the day, wine and cheese, dessert, and more fireworks viewing opportunities.

Dining and Character Meals Just Steps Away

Each Disneyland hotel has its own signature restaurants, many of which offer character dining. Goofy’s Kitchen, Storytellers Cafe, and Napa Rose all deliver that extra bit of magic—and they’re right outside your room.

You’ll also find Trader Sam’s (now accepting reservations), Great Maple (brunch all day), pool bars, quick bites, mobile order options, and in-room dining. Whether you want a grab-and-go breakfast or a sit-down dinner with wine, there are plenty of options without leaving the property.

Pools, Classes, and Family Activities

Each hotel has its own themed pool area, and many offer activities throughout the day. In the summer, you’ll often find pool parties. There are waterslides, whirlpools, cabanas for rent, and plenty of space to relax between park days.

You’ll also find a rotating schedule of family-friendly events, like drawing Disney characters, ukulele or hula lessons, origami, and more. Some activities vary by season, but there’s always something extra happening that adds to the magic of your stay.

Final Thoughts

Could you stay off property and still have an amazing trip? Of course. But staying at a Disneyland Resort hotel lets you lean into the magic from the moment you wake up to the moment your head hits the pillow. It’s not just about the convenience—it’s about the experience. And for our family, that’s what makes it worth it every time.

If you’re planning your Disneyland trip and want help figuring out which hotel is best for your family, I’d love to help. Start Planning Today.

Is It Worth Staying On Property for your Disneyland Vacation? Here’s Why We Think So